Medical Conditions and Drowsy Driving
Falling asleep at the wheel can cause serious accidents that result in lifelong injuries, trauma and death. Drowsy driving is a major factor in many motor vehicle accidents in the United States. At Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, our experienced car accident attorneys have handled hundreds of cases involving drowsy drivers and are well-versed in developing effective strategies to help injured clients recover just compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.
Causes Of Drowsy Driving
Millions of people suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, which is typically caused by sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation is often connected to medical problems such as sleep disturbances, sleep apnea, chronic insomnia and other medical issues. According to the National Institutes of Health, individuals who suffer from sleep apnea are six times more likely to be involved in motor vehicle accidents.
Narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, epilepsy, heart disease and other complex health problems can cause sleep disturbances and other issues that lead to drowsy driving. Taking drugs such as benzodiazepines, sleep medications, narcotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines also can also slow reaction time or cause someone to fall asleep at the wheel.
Medical History Indicators for Drowsy Driving Charges
Drowsy drivers are committing a negligent act, even if they do not intend to. They are risking their own lives and the lives of others and should be held accountable for their actions, but proving driver fatigue can be difficult. If you have been injured by a drowsy driver, it is vital to collect evidence that shows the accident was caused by his or her negligence. In cases where drivers do not admit to falling asleep at the wheel, there are other ways to show evidence of fatigue. Cell phone records, GPS tracking, traffic cameras and witness statements can be helpful, but one of the most effective ways to prove driver fatigue is by reviewing the negligent party’s medical history.
Skilled personal injury attorneys and their legal teams are well-equipped to handle cases involving drowsy drivers and will investigate all of the evidence surrounding an accident. They also possess the resources to enlist the services of experts who specialize in investigating, reviewing and identifying possible medical causes for drowsy driving that may support the facts of your case.
If you’ve been injured or have lost a loved one in an accident caused by a drowsy driver, our legal team at Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, is committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call for a free initial consultation. Se habla español.
Contact Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC
Whether you’ve been injured at work, in an automobile accident, or due to medical malpractice – you deserve justice and fair compensation for your injuries. Since 1997, the personal injury attorneys of Gold, Albanese & Barletti have established a legacy of justice for our clients. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to get maximum compensation for your injuries. There are no upfront legal fees and we don’t get paid unless you win your case.
Our firm is licensed and admitted to municipal, state, federal and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Since 1997, we have helped thousands of clients and established a track record of success across a wide array of legal practice areas.