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Have you ever driven after the night shift? After pulling an all-nighter studying for an exam, sitting with a sick child, or partying with friends? If you have, then you know that it can be dangerous to drive while you are tired, but do you know dangerous it is?

Studies on Drowsy and Drunk Drivers

A recent French study found that both drowsy and drunk drivers were at least two times as likely to cause a crash when compared to drivers who were well rested and sober. The French study isn’t the first of its kind.

Researchers in the United States cite experimental studies. Losing four hours of sleep a night has a similar effect as drinking a six pack of beer. Additionally, staying awake all night can be similar to have a blood alcohol level of 0.19%. The legal limit is 0.08%.

The Bottom Line

Of course, it is difficult to make blanket statements about the risks of drowsiness and drunkenness. Some people need more sleep than others and some people have a higher alcohol tolerance than others. The results are not the same for everyone, but the take away message is the same for everyone.

That message, supported by our accident and injury lawyers, is to comply with all applicable laws, to know your limit and not to drive when you are tired or drunk. The potentially catastrophic results are too great to take the risk.