CHP Raising Awareness About the Dangers of Drowsy Driving This Season

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) recently issued a press release about their efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving as the days begin to get shorter. With the end of daylight saving time, we also have drivers adjusting their sleep and working schedules. This is a really great time to make sure you’re getting well rested before you get behind the wheel.  

Drowsy driving can impact your ability to safely operate an automobile, so this is an important topic for motorists in California. The CHP partnered up with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the National Sleep Foundation to recognize Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, which ran from November 6th through the 12th.  

“Falling Back” Isn’t Exactly Adding More Sleep  

Safety officials are quick to point out that just because we got to “fall back” with our clocks, that “extra hour of sleep” didn’t necessarily equate to more restful sleep. Apparently, during the fall, people actually tend to wake up earlier, which can then result in less sleep cumulatively throughout the week. The time change can also impact schedules, sleep quality, work timelines and have a serious impact on sleeping and waking patterns that can lead to potential drowsiness for drivers.  

Officials with the CHP want drivers to know that driving while drowsy can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driver fatigue needs to be taken seriously. Operating a large piece of machinery like a motor vehicle requires a well-rested attentive and vigilant driver. Be cognizant of the time change and the shorter days, and adjust your schedule to make sure you’re getting enough restful sleep.  

If You’re Tired, Pull Over  

The CHP recommends tired motorists safely pull off of the roadway into one of the many statewide rest areas for a quick mind-clearing break. It’s not enough to just stay awake behind the wheel, you need to be rested enough to be an attentive and safe driver. Being drowsy has similar impacts to your reflexes, cognition and decision making skills as alcohol.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a drowsy driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.