Most everyone is aware of the dangers associated with driving under the influence of alcohol. However, not everyone is aware of the potential dangers of driving while sleepy. One North Carolina doctor claims that people who drive while sleepy react in the same manner as a drunk driver, but the condition does not receive as much attention. Unfortunately, one man now faces criminal charges after allegedly falling asleep behind the wheel and causing an accident that could ultimately result in a wrongful death lawsuit.
The accident occurred one morning in early May. Neighbors indicate that the 56-year-old female victim was likely on her way to work at the time of the accident. Police claim that a 23-year-old man driving a sedan in the opposite direction fell asleep. As a result, his vehicle drifted into oncoming traffic before colliding head-on into the car driven by the woman.
The female driver was transported to Carolinas Medical Center for treatment. Unfortunately, she died soon afterward. Police do not suspect that speed or alcohol contributed to the accident. The young man now faces a misdemeanor charge of death by motor vehicle.
Unfortunately, people who recognize that they are tired may not fully realize the implications of falling asleep while driving, and some people with experience on the subject suggest that measures such as turning on the radio or rolling down the window may not be effective. This case has altered the lives of the woman’s family members as they attempt to cope with their grief and the financial consequences of her death, including medical bills, funeral expenses and loss of income. A successfully-argued wrongful death case, however, could provide some relief if the court awards the family the damages allowed under North Carolina law.
Source: wbtv.com, “Man arrested after falling asleep at the wheel, killing other driver in head-on crash“, , May 7, 2014