Pearland Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer

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While drowsy driving doesn’t receive the same level of attention as drunk or distracted driving, it is a significant threat on the roadways of Pearland and throughout Texas.

What is Drowsy Driving?

Drowsy driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle feeling tired or sleepy. It may stem from long hours behind the wheel, lack of sleep, or irregular work schedules. 

Fatigue affects a driver’s ability to focus, making it challenging to stay alert and react in time to avoid hazards. Falling asleep while driving, even for a split second, can result in devastating accidents.

Is Drowsy Driving Illegal?

In Texas, there is no specific law that prohibits driving while fatigued. However, a driver who causes an accident due to drowsy driving can still be liable under general traffic laws. 

If drowsy driving leads to reckless behavior, such as swerving, speeding, or violating other traffic rules, the driver may face legal consequences. 

As your Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you understand how these laws apply to your case and assist in holding the negligent party accountable.

Why Is Drowsy Driving Dangerous?

Driving while tired is incredibly hazardous because fatigue directly impacts a driver’s ability to make sound judgments and respond to traffic situations promptly. Some of the most significant risks include:

Impaired reaction times: 

Fatigued drivers are slower to react to sudden changes in traffic, such as cars stopping abruptly or pedestrians crossing the road.

Reduced decision-making ability: 

Tired drivers often need better decisions, like misjudging the speed or distance of other vehicles.

Falling asleep while driving: 

When a driver is tired, brief “microsleeps” of just a few seconds can occur, leading to high-traffic crashes.

Lack of alertness: 

Drowsy drivers may overlook hazards on the road, such as stop signs, red lights, or other vehicles in their blind spots.

Statistics on Drowsy Driving Accidents

Drowsy driving is a significant concern in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatigue-related crashes account for thousands of yearly accidents and injuries. The following table highlights some key statistics on drowsy driving:

StatisticData
Annual Crashes Involving Fatigue91,000 crashes annually in the U.S. (NHTSA)
Percentage of Fatal Crashes from Fatigue6% of all fatal crashes (AAA)
Drivers Who Admit to Drowsy Driving21% in 30 days (AAA)

(Sources: NHTSA Drowsy Driving Stats, AAA Drowsy Driving Countermeasures)

Common Causes of Drowsy Driving Accidents in Pearland

Long Commutes and Fatigue

Pearland’s location in the Houston metropolitan area means many residents face lengthy daily commutes. Extended periods on the road contribute to driver fatigue, especially for those working long hours or commuting during peak traffic times. 

The increased risk of drowsy driving accidents due to long commutes is a severe concern for residents and visitors traveling through Pearland.

Shift Work and Irregular Sleep Patterns

Many workers in Pearland have irregular schedules, especially those in industries that operate 24/7, such as healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. 

Shift workers often struggle to maintain consistent sleep patterns, making them more susceptible to fatigue while driving. 

As your Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can investigate these factors when determining liability in your case.


Lack of Sleep and Medical Conditions

Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy, can significantly increase the risk of drowsy driving accidents. Drivers suffering from these conditions may not even realize they are too exhausted to drive. 

Medical conditions affecting sleep can be essential to injury claims following a crash.

Legal Rights After a Drowsy Driving Accident

Liability in Drowsy Driving Cases


Determining liability in a drowsy driving accident often depends on proving that the at-fault driver was tired during the crash. 

In Texas, drivers are expected to exercise reasonable care while on the road, and failure to do so can result in legal responsibility for any damages caused. 

Texas follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that a driver may still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault, though their percentage of fault will reduce their award.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Filing a personal injury claim after a drowsy driving accident can be complex. You must gather evidence demonstrating the other driver’s fatigue, such as witness testimony, accident reconstruction, and possibly even medical records. 

As your Pearland drowsy driving accident attorney, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys will guide you through each step of the claims process to ensure you receive fair compensation. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for more information.

Common Injuries in Drowsy Driving Accidents

Types of Injuries Caused by Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving accidents can result in severe injuries, including:

Whiplash: 

Sudden impacts can cause neck strain or sprain, known as whiplash.

Head and brain injuries: 

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur in serious crashes, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.

Fractures and broken bones: 

High-speed collisions often result in broken bones and other serious injuries.

Internal injuries: 

Internal bleeding and organ damage are common in severe accidents.

Long-Term Effects of Drowsy Driving Accidents

In addition to immediate injuries, victims of drowsy driving accidents may face long-term challenges, such as:

Chronic pain:

 Injuries like whiplash can lead to ongoing discomfort and reduced mobility.

Disability: 

Severe injuries may result in permanent disabilities, preventing victims from returning to work or participating in daily activities.

Emotional distress: 

The trauma of a severe accident can have lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Compensation Available After a Drowsy Driving Accident

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you are involved in a drowsy driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses: 

Coverage for current and future medical bills, rehabilitation, and therapy.

Lost wages: 

Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.

Pain and suffering: 

Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Rehabilitation costs: 

Coverage for ongoing medical treatment and physical therapy.

For more details on compensation available in personal injury cases, visit our Pearland Personal Injury Lawyer page.

How a Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Compensation

Hiring an experienced Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer is crucial in maximizing your compensation. DeHoyos Accident Attorneys will work diligently to gather evidence, build a solid case, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

By choosing DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with the utmost care and dedication. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice you deserve.

How a Pearland Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help

Investigating the Accident

A Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to gather critical evidence, such as:

  • Surveillance footage: Camera footage from nearby businesses or traffic lights.
  • Eyewitness reports: Statements from other drivers or pedestrians who witnessed the crash.
  • Medical records: Documentation of your injuries to support your compensation claim.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Navigating insurance claims after a drowsy driving accident can be complicated. Insurers may try to minimize your claim or deny liability altogether. DeHoyos Accident Attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Negotiating Settlements

A skilled lawyer will negotiate with the at-fault party’s attorneys and insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. By building a solid case with compelling evidence, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys will ensure you are compensated for all your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Importance of Hiring a Local Attorney

Why Choose a Pearland Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer?

Working with a local attorney is beneficial because they deeply understand Texas traffic laws and the unique challenges of drowsy driving cases in Pearland. 

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys has extensive experience handling these claims and is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation.

Success Stories and Client Testimonials

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys has helped numerous clients recover compensation after drowsy driving accidents. For real client success stories and testimonials, visit our testimonials page.

Steps to Take After a Drowsy Driving Accident

What You Should Do Immediately After an Accident

Seek medical attention: 

Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.

Report the accident to the authorities: 

File a police report to document the details of the crash, which will be helpful in any legal claims.

Document the scene and injuries: 

Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their testimony can help strengthen your case.

For more detailed guidance on what to do after an accident, visit our Pearland Car Accident Lawyer page.

Consulting with a Pearland Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer

It’s essential to consult with a Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer immediately after the accident. Early legal consultation ensures that evidence is preserved and your rights are protected. 

A- lawyer can provide valuable advice on proceeding with your case and help you navigate the complexities of Texas’ personal injury laws.

Faq´s Pearland Drowsy Driving Accident

  1. What is the difference between drowsy driving and falling asleep while driving?

Drowsy driving refers to driving while tired, even if you haven’t fallen completely asleep. Falling asleep while driving is a more extreme form of drowsiness, where you lose consciousness briefly. Both are extremely dangerous and can lead to severe accidents.

  1. Can I be held responsible for a drowsy driving accident if I wasn’t the driver?

If you were a passenger in a vehicle involved in a drowsy driving accident and suffered injuries, you may be able to file a claim against the vehicle’s driver or owner. However, the specific laws and regulations regarding passenger liability vary by state. It’s essential to consult with a Pearland drowsy driving accident lawyer to discuss your particular situation.

  1. What types of compensation can I seek after a drowsy driving accident?

If you were injured in a drowsy driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount of compensation you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.  

  1. How long do I have to file a drowsy driving accident claim?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies by state. In Texas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the accident date. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, so it’s essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible.

  1. Can I recover compensation if the drowsy driver was not at fault in the accident?

In some cases, you may be able to recover compensation even if the drowsy driver was not at fault in the accident. For example, if the accident was caused by a defective vehicle or a dangerous road condition, the owner or operator of the car or the responsible government agency may be liable.

Seeking Justice for Drowsy Driving Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drowsy driving accident in Pearland, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys is here to help. 

Our experienced legal team will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. 

Don’t wait—contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today for a free consultation. You can reach us through our contact page.

Let DeHoyos Accident Attorneys guide you through this difficult time, providing the legal support you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

drowsy driving car accident
Ryan DeHoyos is ready to help.

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys is committed to fighting on behalf of injured Texans. Ryan is committed to working tirelessly for each client and standing up to big insurance companies.

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Ryan DeHoyos

Ryan DeHoyos is an experienced personal injury lawyer. Recognized as a “Rising Star” on Super Lawyers (2019), Ryan DeHoyos can help secure the compensation you deserve so that you can move on with your life in the knowledge that you have received some measure of justice. He represents clients who have been injured in a car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, or any other type of accident and gets them the compensation they deserve. Call him at (832) 745-4878 for a free consultation.

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