Every day, countless drivers get behind the wheel after inadequate rest—unaware of the danger they pose to themselves and others. While drunk and distracted driving get much-needed attention, drowsy driving remains an underestimated yet deadly threat.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2017, 91,000 police-reported crashes involved drowsy drivers, causing about 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths. Recent data shows similar trends, with 684 fatalities in 2021 and 693 in 2022 linked to drowsy driving.
These numbers likely underestimate the problem since fatigue is difficult to prove after a crash. Yet research shows that sleep deprivation impairs driving as much as intoxication: being awake for 17 hours equals a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05%, 20 hours equals 0.08%, and 24 hours equals 0.10%.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
How sleep affects driving ability
Real-life drowsy-driving cases, including the Tracy Morgan crash
Warning signs you should never ignore
Legal and financial consequences of fatigued driving
Common myths about driving tired
What to do if you’re injured by a drowsy driver
Practical tips to stay safe
Why Inkelaar Law is your best advocate after a fatigue-related crash
What Is Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving means operating a vehicle while cognitively impaired due to lack of sleep. It includes nodding off or driving while exhausted, both of which drastically reduce alertness, reaction time, and coordination.
Causes Include:
Chronic sleep deprivation
Shift work or jet lag
Undiagnosed sleep disorders like sleep apnea
Long work hours without adequate rest
The Science of Fatigue: Why Sleep Matters
Sleep replenishes the brain and consolidates memory. Lack of sleep disrupts:
Reaction Times: After 18–24 hours awake, reaction times can slow as much as a BAC of 0.08–0.10%.
Judgment & Decision-Making: Sleep-deprived drivers misjudge speed, distance, and braking.
Microsleeps: Brief involuntary sleep episodes that cause drifting or crashing.
Situational Awareness: Fatigue reduces vigilance and hazard detection.
One study found sleepy drivers are 2.5 times more likely to crash.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Young Drivers (16–29): Nearly two-thirds of drowsy-driving crashes involve young drivers.
Shift Workers: Late-night schedules increase risk.
Commercial Drivers: Long hours and irregular shifts contribute to more than half of fatal truck crashes.
The Numbers
NHTSA estimates 100,000 police-reported drowsy-driving crashes annually, resulting in 1,550 deaths and 71,000 injuries. The National Safety Council reports even higher numbers, with 109,000 injury crashes and 6,400 fatalities. Fatigue-related crashes cost society approximately $109 billion each year.
High-Profile Case: Tracy Morgan, 2014
On June 7, 2014, a Walmart truck driver who had been awake for over 28 hours crashed into the limousine van carrying actor Tracy Morgan on the New Jersey Turnpike. The crash involved six vehicles, killing comedian James McNair and injuring others.
Morgan suffered a traumatic brain injury, broken bones, and was in a coma for two weeks. The truck driver faced vehicular homicide charges, and Walmart settled for a reported $90 million.
This case highlighted the deadly risks of fatigue in commercial driving and led to stricter federal regulations on driver hours.
Before You Drive:
Did you get at least 7 hours of sleep last night? (40% of adults get less than 6 hours on a typical night.)
Are you feeling fatigued, jet-lagged, or working a second shift?
While Driving:
Pull over if you:
Yawn repeatedly or struggle to keep your eyes open
Drift out of your lane or miss exits
Catch yourself daydreaming or forgetting the last few miles
A short 15–20 minute nap and caffeine can help, but neither replaces proper rest.
Driving while sleep-deprived is legally treated as negligence, similar to drunk driving. In Nebraska and other states, fatigued drivers can be held liable for crashes.
Victims often face:
Emergency medical care and hospitalization
Long-term rehabilitation
Lost income and property damage
Emotional trauma
Insurance companies may downplay injuries or dispute fault. That’s why legal representation is crucial. Skilled attorneys gather evidence like driver logs and eyewitness accounts to build strong cases.
You may need specialized attorneys including:
Car accident lawyers
Commercial truck crash attorneys
Personal injury lawyers
Experienced lawyers investigate causes, secure expert testimony, and negotiate or litigate for maximum compensation.
If you’re in Nebraska or Omaha, local attorneys understand state laws, jury tendencies, and insurance tactics—providing an advantage in your case.
Myth: A nap or coffee will make me fine.
Fact: Coffee gives only a short boost; naps help but don’t replace proper sleep.
Myth: If I stay awake, I’m okay.
Fact: Even mild fatigue harms judgment and reaction.
Myth: Short trips are safe from drowsiness.
Fact: Most fatigue crashes happen within 25 miles of home due to overconfidence.
Q: How much sleep do I need to drive safely?
A: Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to maintain alertness and proper reaction times while driving. Less than 6 hours significantly increases your risk of fatigue-related crashes.
Q: Can caffeine keep me awake while driving?
A: Caffeine may provide a short-term boost in alertness, but it’s not a substitute for sleep. Once the caffeine wears off, fatigue can return even stronger. The best defense is getting enough rest before driving.
Q: What are the warning signs that I’m too tired to drive?
A: Common signs include frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, difficulty focusing, drifting out of your lane, missing road signs or exits, and experiencing “microsleeps” — brief involuntary nodding off.
Q: Is it illegal to drive while drowsy?
A: While there is no specific “drowsy driving” law in many states, driving while fatigued can be considered negligence. If a drowsy driver causes a crash, they may be held legally responsible for damages or injuries.
Q: What should I do if I’m feeling tired while driving?
A: Pull over safely and take a 15–20 minute nap if possible. Drink some water or a caffeinated beverage afterward. If you continue to feel drowsy, find a safe place to rest or switch drivers.
Q: How is drowsy driving proven in a crash investigation?
A: Investigators may use evidence such as driver logs, witness statements, time of day, driver statements, and expert analysis to determine fatigue as a contributing factor.
Q: What kind of compensation can I get if injured by a drowsy driver?
A: Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and other damages. An experienced attorney can help maximize your recovery.
Q: How can I reduce my risk of drowsy driving?
A: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid driving during peak sleepiness hours (midnight to 6 a.m.), take frequent breaks on long trips, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or sedatives before driving.
Seek medical attention immediately—even if injuries seem minor.
Report fatigue signs to police at the scene.
Document evidence: photos, witness contacts, medical records.
Avoid detailed statements to insurers—let your lawyer handle communication.
Contact experienced accident attorneys for free case evaluations.
Prioritize 7–9 hours of sleep nightly.
Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles.
Avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m.
Share driving duties if possible.
Avoid alcohol and sedating medications before driving.
Stay hydrated and eat lightly.
Get evaluated for sleep disorders if you snore or feel tired during the day.
Consider vehicle safety technologies like lane-departure warnings.
With 30+ years of combined experience, Inkelaar Law serves clients in Nebraska and Florida specializing in car accidents and personal injury.
Free consultations with no upfront fees
Expertise in investigation, medical coordination, and expert witnesses
Proven track record in securing maximum compensation
Local knowledge with national-level resources
We fight insurance companies and insurance tactics to get you the justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a fatigued driver, don’t navigate the recovery and legal process alone. Contact Inkelaar Law for a free consultation and dedicated representation.
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You deserve accountability, fair compensation, and peace of mind. Call Inkelaar Law today or book an appointment to start your path to justice.
Drowsy driving is a silent yet serious threat on par with drunk driving. By staying alert, recognizing warning signs, and prioritizing rest, you can protect yourself and others on the road. And if the worst happens, Inkelaar Law stands ready to help you recover and fight for your rights.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
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