Eight People Injured in Oklahoma Car Accident Caused by Sleepy Driver
A driver who fell asleep at the wheel caused a car accident in Oklahoma, which sent eight people, including four children, to the hospital with injuries. According to a news report in The Ardmoreite, the injury collision occurred on State Highway 1 west of Ravia. Oklahoma Highway Patrol officials say a 22-year-old woman who was eastbound on the highway fell asleep while driving a 2003 Dodge van. The van crossed the centerline and struck a 2004 Chevrolet driven by a 57-year-old woman. That driver was transported to an area with multiple injuries as were her passengers, who included four children between the ages of 1 and 12. It is not clear if any of their injuries were life-threatening.
Sleepy or drowsy driving is proven to be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving causes more than 100,000 car accidents every year, resulting in about 40,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths.
There are several easy steps motorists can take to prevent drowsy driving. First and foremost, get a good night’s rest. Sleep experts recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for adults. Also, plan to drive long trips with a companion. When driving long distances, schedule regular rest stops, preferably every 100 miles (or once every two hours). Avoid alcohol or medications (over-the-counter or prescribed) that may impair your driving.
Please remember that drowsy driving is negligent driving. If a sleepy or drowsy driver has injured you or a loved one, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. The experienced Oklahoma auto accident injury attorneys at The Maples Law Firm can help you better understand your legal rights and options. We help injured car accident victims obtain fair compensation for their losses and help hold the at-fault drivers accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver in Oklahoma, please call our offices at (405) 705-5050 for a comprehensive case evaluation.