Drowsy Driving – A Factor in Iowa Truck Crashes

Drowsy driving has been a leading issue in car accidents and truck accidents in Iowa and throughout the nation. More and more people are busier these days, work two jobs, have demanding schedules, and just don't get enough sleep.

The new study from AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that 41% of drivers in the U.S. have admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel, while one out of ten drivers admitted to falling asleep driving during the last 12 months. This study also shows that over 25% of drivers admitted to having trouble keeping their eyes open while driving during the past month.

This problem not only affects drivers of passenger cars, but it is also an issue facing truck drivers. Drowsy driving is one of the biggest factors in Iowa truck crashes. Truck drivers are racing against the clock to get their deliveries to each destination on time or ahead of time. Many truckers have tight schedules and don't get as much sleep as they should or even what is required to operate a big rig.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that approximately 31% of heavy truck crashes are caused from driver fatigue. Drowsy driving negatively impacts a trucker's driving skills and could lead to slowed reaction time and reduced attention. If truck drivers are tired, they may not be accurately paying attention to the road. Fatigue also decreases their reflexes and leads to slower reaction times behind the wheel.

Iowa semi truck crashes could occur due to drowsy driving because a truck driver has slower reaction times, could veer off the side of the road, jackknife, or swerve out of their lane, crashing into another vehicle. Drowsy driving is negligent driving and can lead to serious injuries and accidents in Iowa and throughout the U.S. 

Drivers of passenger vehicles and tractor-trailers should not get behind the wheel if they are fatigued. If you have been injured in a Cedar Rapids, Iowa car crash or truck wreck because of a negligent driver, contact a Cedar Rapids car crash attorney at the law offices of Brady & O'Shea. Call (319) 866-9277 to speak with a knowledgeable Iowa car crash lawyer and get your legal questions answered today.