It is common for everyone to feel tired from time to time. Of course, some people may feel tired more often than others and find themselves dragging through any activity they must complete while only partially focused. This type of scenario may sound familiar to you and other Texas residents.
Of course, many activities require a person’s full attention, and even a slight bit of drowsiness could cause serious issues. In particular, driving becomes an even more dangerous activity if the person behind the wheel is drowsy. Drowsiness can cause a lack of focus, meaning the driver is distracted, and the possibility also exists that the person could fall asleep at the wheel. Either scenario could lead to a serious accident that leaves you or someone you love injured.
Preventing and recognizing drowsiness
One of the best ways to prevent driving while drowsy is to recognize when you are drowsy and what factors can cause drowsiness. In addition to simply not getting enough rest, some common causes of drowsiness include the following:
- Medications: Several types of medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect. In fact, they often come with warnings not to operate vehicles or machinery while taking the medications, but many people may not heed these warnings.
- Work life: If a person works long hours or works the night shift, he or she is more likely to suffer from drowsiness than individuals on a more normal work schedule. Getting used to the schedule may help lessen drowsiness, but it could still pose a threat.
- Sleeping disorders: Various sleeping disorders can also cause drowsiness as they prevent individuals from getting a restful sleep.
- Other medical conditions: A person’s health can also contribute to drowsiness, and issues like diabetes, hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome and others can increase this risk.
- Mental state: A person’s mental health can also influence how drowsy he or she is. Depression, high levels of stress and anxiety, boredom, and other mental and emotional factors can have an impact on drowsiness levels.
While you may not feel any of these causes directly affect your life, they could affect the lives of other drivers, including those who operate 18-wheelers. Unfortunately, if anyone feels drowsy while driving, individuals on the road are at risk. If a drowsy driver causes an accident that results in your suffering, you may have reason to file a personal injury claim in order to seek compensation for resulting damages.