Dangerous driving behaviors such as aggressive driving and texting while driving are often cited as contributing to a large percentage of car and truck accidents. While discussed less frequently, driving while tired is one of the most common and hazardous driving practices for drivers of both personal and commercial vehicles.

A study conducted by officials at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows that approximately 13 percent of commercial trucking accidents are caused by truck drivers who are overly fatigued. It makes sense that truck drivers would be particularly impacted by so-called fatigued or drowsy driving as many regularly push physical limits to deliver loads and meet deadlines.

Motor vehicle accidents involving large commercial trucks and vehicles are among some of the most serious and deadly. In an effort to reduce the number of trucking accidents caused by drivers who are overly fatigued, the FMCSA has instituted driving hour restrictions for the commercial trucking industry. Individual drivers, however, would be wise to recognize the signs of fatigue which include yawning and blurred vision.  

The FMCSA recently offered the following driving tips to help drivers combat the adverse effects of fatigued driving.

• Avoid taking both over-the-counter and prescription medications known to induce drowsiness while driving
• Get enough rest at night and take a nap if feeling tired
• Avoid driving during the mid-afternoon hours as well as during the middle of the night

Ohio residents who have been involved in a car or truck accident in which the driver was overly fatigued may suffer painful and debilitating physical injuries. In many cases, drivers and passengers injured in such accidents may choose to take legal action to recover compensation related to medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Source: Supply Chain Digital, "Avoiding fatigured driving: FMCSA releases important safety tips," Aug. 24, 2013