Can I Be Arrested for Drowsy Driving?

 Posted on February 06, 2024 in Personal Injury

Many people may do it, but drowsy driving is a dangerous way to operate a motor vehicle. Drowsy driving can count as distracted driving, and you may earn tickets or citations for driving while drowsy. Additionally, drowsy driving may lead to car accidents that injure you or those in other vehicles. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a drowsy driver, you should speak with an experienced Illinois car accident attorney right away.

Is Drowsy Driving Dangerous?

Drowsy driving might not seem like the most dangerous thing, but driving while fatigued is actually a very bad idea. Drowsy driving is often classified as distracted driving, as driving when you are tired prevents you from being able to react quickly, focus on the road, and be fully aware when you drive. You may even experience ‘micro-sleep’ where you fall asleep at the wheel for short periods of time.

If you continue driving while drowsy instead of pulling over and taking a rest somewhere, you may end up driving off the road, wrecking your car, or causing an accident between yourself and another vehicle on the road, all things that can have serious consequences.

Is Drowsy Driving Illegal in Illinois?

There are only two states that currently have laws regarding drowsy driving – Arkansas and New Jersey. However, while Illinois does not have any state law in place to ban drowsy driving, getting into an accident while drowsy driving can result in an arrest, traffic tickets, or citations. If you injure someone while driving and you are found to be at fault, you may deal with reckless driving charges or even charges of manslaughter or homicide.

If you are injured in a car accident caused by a drowsy driver, you may be able to seek compensation to cover medical expenses or repairs to your vehicle. An experienced Illinois car accident lawyer can help you explore your options.

Contact a Joliet, IL Car Accident Attorney

Drowsy driving is dangerous, and car accidents can easily occur due to a fatigued driver not paying attention to the road, falling asleep, or not having the proper reaction times to prevent a crash. Injuries caused by drowsy driving car accidents can be severe, and you may need to speak to a skilled Will County, IL car accident lawyer at McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC to explore your compensation options. Call 815-727-0100 for a free consultation.