Friday, August 2, 2013



 Car Accidents Related to Sleep


Most people know that when behind the wheel, it is important to be alert and cautious at all times to avoid a car accident.  Unfortunately, people often choose to drive regardless of their condition, and younger drivers, already particularly at risk, may not realize that their risks are compounded when other factors, like lack of sleep, become an issue. 

A good night’s sleep is important for everybody, however a recent study conducted by the George Institute for Global Health, has suggested that it is especially important for younger drivers.  For people between the ages of 18 to 24, six hours of sleep or less is associated with a 20-percent higher risk of being in a car accident than for those getting a normal night of sleep.  While that statistic alone may not surprise anyone, it illustrates one of the many dangers facing everyone driving on our roadways today.  

Motorists need to be aware of the dangers on the road and ensure that they themselves are alert and aware of the drivers around them.  If you ever find yourself involved in a car accident with a sleepy or otherwise dangerous driver, call Oakland car accident attorney Jack Bloxham. 

Source
1.     Alexandra L. C. Martiniuk. Sleep-Deprived Young Drivers and the Risk for CrashThe DRIVE Prospective Cohort StudySleep-Deprived Young Drivers and Crash Risk.JAMA Pediatrics, 2013; : 1 DOI:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2013.1429



Pedestrian-car accidents are always a tragedy; however, they are especially tragic in the case of hit-and-run accidents.  Recently in near Oakland, California, a man named John Patrick Miller was run down on the University Avenue overpass and pronounced dead at the scene.  The driver took off and the Berkeley police department is now offering a $15,000 reward for anyone with information leading to the arrest of the driver.  Anyone with info is encouraged to call the Berkeley police.

In the case of a hit-and-run injury or wrongful death, it is always important to talk to an attorney for yourself or a loved one as soon as possible after the accident; to be sure you are making the best decisions moving forward.  You may have insurance coverage’s that you are not aware of or there may be other ways of paying for medical bills that you have overlooked.  They can also give you advice on dealing with insurance companies.  There is never a charge for calling a personal injury attorney with any questions you may have, so calling a personal injury attorney after a hit-and-run accident just to discuss your case is a great way to get help for your accident. 

Even if an attorney is unable to represent you, the services his office can provide can be invaluable, especially if you have never been in an accident before.  If you live in the East Bay and have a family member that has been injured or worse, call Oakland wrongful death attorney Jack Bloxham, for advice.