Asleep Behind the Wheel: The Danger of Drowsy Drivers on Illinois Roads

Drowsy drivers are a serious and often overlooked danger on Illinois roads. Each year, fatigued drivers contribute to thousands of accidents, many resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Unlike driving under the influence, drowsy driving can be harder to detect, yet its effects—slowed reaction time, impaired judgment, and brief moments of microsleep—can be just as deadly. 

With long stretches of highway and busy commutes, Illinois drivers are especially vulnerable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Report, 684 lives were lost in 2021 due to drowsy driving. Raising awareness about the risks and encouraging preventative measures, like getting adequate rest and recognizing warning signs of fatigue, is essential to keeping our roads safer for everyone. 

If you’ve been hurt by a drowsy driver, contact Strong Law Offices at 309-393-2928 for a car accident lawyer in Bloomington.

The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Driving Ability

Sleep deprivation impairs a person's ability to drive safely, making it one of the leading, yet underreported, causes of motor vehicle accidents. When a driver is sleep-deprived, their reaction time, decision-making abilities, and attention span are all negatively affected, creating a dangerous situation on the road.

Reduced Reaction Time

One of the most immediate effects of sleep deprivation is reduced reaction time. A well-rested driver can respond quickly to sudden changes in traffic or unexpected obstacles, such as a pedestrian crossing the street or a vehicle braking abruptly. However, a fatigued driver may hesitate or fail to react in time, increasing the likelihood of a collision. Research has shown that being awake for 18 hours can impair a person’s reaction time as much as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%, and staying awake for 24 hours is equivalent to a BAC of 0.10%—well over the legal limit in most states.

Cognitive Impairment

In addition to slowed reaction times, sleep deprivation also impacts cognitive function. Tired drivers have a harder time focusing on the road and may experience lapses in attention. These lapses can lead to "microsleeps"—brief, uncontrollable episodes of sleep that last for a few seconds. During a microsleep, a driver is essentially unconscious, which can be deadly at highway speeds. Even if the driver stays awake, their judgment is impaired. They may struggle with assessing distances, monitoring speed, or making safe decisions in complex driving environments like intersections or heavy traffic.

Behavioral Impacts

Sleep deprivation also affects mood and behavior, which can influence driving performance. Fatigued drivers may become more irritable, impatient, or aggressive. They might take unnecessary risks or fail to follow traffic rules, increasing the chances of an accident. Moreover, drivers often underestimate how tired they are, believing they can power through fatigue, especially on long trips. This false confidence can be particularly dangerous, leading to overestimation of one's driving abilities.

Young adults, shift workers, commercial drivers, and individuals with untreated sleep disorders are among the most at-risk groups for drowsy driving and subsequent car accident injuries. The effects of sleep deprivation on driving are comparable to those of alcohol or drug impairment. Driving without adequate sleep compromises safety for everyone on the road. To reduce the risk of drowsy driving accidents, it’s crucial for drivers to prioritize sleep, recognize signs of fatigue, and avoid getting behind the wheel if they’re not fully alert. Simple steps, such as taking breaks during long trips, sharing driving responsibilities, or even pulling over for a short nap, can make a significant difference in preventing tragedies caused by sleep-deprived driving.

Signs That a Driver May Be Falling Asleep Behind the Wheel

Despite public awareness campaigns, many drivers do not recognize the signs of drowsiness—such as frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, or drifting out of lanes—until it's too late.

One of the most common signs of drowsy driving is frequent yawning or blinking. These physical cues indicate that the body is struggling to stay awake. If a driver finds themselves yawning repeatedly or having difficulty keeping their eyes open, it is a clear signal that they are too tired to drive safely. Heavy eyelids and the sensation of “nodding off” are also strong indicators that the brain is fighting to stay alert.

Another warning sign is difficulty focusing. Drowsy drivers often struggle to maintain consistent attention on the road. Their minds may wander, or they may forget the last few miles they’ve driven. This mental fog can lead to missed exits, erratic lane changes, or the inability to notice traffic signals and signs. Losing track of time or location while driving is a serious red flag.

Drifting between lanes is another common sign. A tired driver may begin to veer off the road or swerve into other lanes without realizing it. Often, these movements are corrected abruptly, as the driver suddenly becomes aware of the mistake. These corrections can cause sudden jerking of the steering wheel or unexpected braking, both of which increase the risk of an accident. In some cases, rumble strips on the side of the highway can provide an audible warning, but relying on such features is not a substitute for being fully alert.

Additionally, drowsy drivers may experience delayed reactions. Slower response times can make it difficult to stop in time for traffic lights, pedestrians, or other vehicles. A tired driver may also fail to notice brake lights ahead or may react too late to avoid a collision. Combined with impaired judgment, these delays can be deadly, especially at high speeds.

Other behavioral signs include tailgating, missing road signs, and an overall lack of coordination. Drivers may seem confused or unsure of their surroundings, make poor decisions, or engage in risky behaviors without realizing it. These symptoms can sometimes mimic those of impaired driving, making it difficult for others to distinguish between the two.

How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Drowsy Driving Accident

Being involved in a car accident is stressful, but when the cause is drowsy driving, it can be especially frustrating. If you’ve been injured in a drowsy driving accident, a car accident lawyer can be a critical resource. From investigating the incident to fighting for fair compensation, an experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you recover both physically and financially.

Investigating the Cause of the Accident

One of the first ways a lawyer can help is by thoroughly investigating the cause of the crash. Drowsy driving can be hard to prove without proper evidence. A skilled attorney will look into police reports, witness statements, dashcam footage, and available data from the vehicles involved. They may also examine the at-fault driver’s schedule, work history, and sleep patterns to determine whether fatigue played a role. In some cases, your lawyer may work with accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals to build a stronger case.

Identifying Liability

Establishing who is at fault is essential in any personal injury claim. A lawyer will assess whether the drowsy driver acted negligently—such as ignoring signs of fatigue, working excessive hours, or failing to take rest breaks. In some cases, the liability may extend beyond just the driver. For example, if the driver was working for a company at the time of the crash, the employer could also be held responsible under legal theories like negligent supervision or failure to comply with regulations regarding driving hours. Your attorney will know how to navigate these liability issues.

Handling Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts and may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages. A lawyer can handle all communication with the insurance companies, ensuring your rights are protected. They will negotiate aggressively to get you the compensation you need and will not be pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.

Calculating Damages

After a drowsy driving accident, victims may suffer from a wide range of damages—medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney will help you calculate both your current and future expenses, including long-term care or disability if applicable. They’ll also assess non-economic damages, such as emotional distress or a decreased quality of life. This comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of your recovery is overlooked.

Representing You in Court

While many personal injury claims are settled outside of court, some cases require litigation. If a fair agreement can’t be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial. They will present evidence, question witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury. Having a strong legal advocate on your side can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

Providing Peace of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, a lawyer provides peace of mind during a challenging time. After a traumatic accident, the last thing you want to worry about is navigating the legal system. Your attorney will handle all aspects of your case so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

A lawyer’s support after a drowsy driving accident is invaluable. From uncovering the truth to securing the compensation you need, Strong Law Offices in Bloomington can help turn a difficult situation into one where justice is served.