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Autumn increases the chances for drowsy driving

Posted by Albert Hansen | Sep 28, 2018 | 0 Comments

The northeast is one of the best areas in the nation during the fall season. The amount of festivals that occur and trees that change leaf colors gets many residents excited for October and November every year.

However, the seasonal change also brings newer hazards to motorists. While summer often has a higher motor vehicle accident and fatality count, many individuals in New Hampshire do not prepare themselves for how the colder weather and falling leaves affect their driving. One of the biggest changes in autumn is how more likely it is to get in a drowsy driving accident. Drivers should be aware of how the decreasing sunlight is affecting their ability to stay awake on the road.

Sleepy without sunlight

While many people think of winter when it comes to seasonal fatigue, plenty of residents begin to feel more tired in the fall. A sleep specialist from the University of Minnesota said that the reason for this is because our body's natural rhythm changes along with the amount of sunlight. He claims that the first bit of sunlight you see in the morning is responsible for waking you up and keeping you awake for the entire day.

Additionally, the colder weather and lack of sunlight can also discourage runners and other people from getting enough exercise, which will only make them more tired whether they are at home or work.

A sign of things to come

Some drivers in New Hampshire are already starting to demonstrate sleep deprivation behind the wheel as October approaches. A recent example of this can be found on the morning of September 28 in Londonderry, where a tractor trailer driver fell asleep behind the wheel and struck a couple of construction vehicles on I-93. One of the fire chiefs believes that the driver was just a few feet off from causing multiple fatalities.

Health professionals advise residents to get a sufficient amount of sleep, exercise and maintain a healthy diet during autumn to fight fatigue. If you suffer any injuries from these sleepy drivers, then you can take them to court for damage liability to potentially acquire compensation.

 

About the Author

Albert Hansen

DWI, OUI, superior and district court cases, domestic violence, habitual offender, all motor vehicle/license cases, felonies, misdemeanors and violations, as well as divorce/domestic relations are the areas of practice for Attorney Albert Hansen.  Al Hansen is a 1991 graduate of Bates College, fo...

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