Hiring a drowsy driving accident lawyer is essential if you were in an automobile accident caused by a drowsy driver. Your accident attorney will determine whether the other driver was negligent or not and pursue the legal compensation you deserve. A good lawyer will also consider the possibility of contributory negligence in your case. A skilled drowsy driving accident lawyer can assist you in determining the legal liability of a negligent driver.
Getting a drowsy driving accident lawyer
If you have been in a drowsy driving accident, it is in your best interest to contact a Mesquite, TX drowsy driving accident lawyer. The attorney can handle all the details of your claim and can advise you as to the next steps. Avoiding drowsy driving is also important. You should never get behind the wheel when you are too tired to do so. Instead, try to remain awake by getting a ride with a friend. They can also help you stay alert by spotting signs of drowsy driving. You can even take turns driving while they can be on the lookout for you.
Avoiding drowsy driving
One of the most important steps for avoiding drowsy driving is getting plenty of sleep. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night and avoid long driving trips. Also, read the warning labels of medications you take. Some can make you drowsy, so you should talk to your doctor about alternatives. Whenever possible, make arrangements for someone else to drive. But if this is not possible, you can also avoid driving altogether.
Signs of drowsy driving
Most people don’t realize that they’re driving while drowsy, but there are signs that you might be falling asleep while behind the wheel. One of the most common signs of drowsy driving is difficulty remembering past rumble strips or miles. You may also experience yawning and blinking frequently. If any of these symptoms sounds familiar, stop immediately and pull over. You may want to consider getting a power nap to regain focus.
Contributory negligence
A recent case in North Carolina found that a passenger’s contribution to the crash could be a defense in a drowsy driving accident lawsuit. The case involved Bullins v. Walker, in which the plaintiff sued Walker because she was compelled to stay in the vehicle when Walker made two stops on the way home. When Walker lost control of the vehicle on the second stop, the plaintiff was thrown out of the vehicle and suffered horrendous injuries.
Damages from a drowsy driving accident
In New York State, drunk driving laws have specific provisions. Punitive damages are available to victims in these accidents if the drunk driver was at fault. These penalties are meant to punish the at-fault party, but cannot compensate the victims’ specific losses. Punitive damages must be paid from the at-fault party’s personal assets. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to sue for damages in these situations.
