by Michael Pines

We’ve all done it: hit the snooze button to catch a little more sleep in the wee hours of the morning. And that’s not necessarily a bad idea for those who are truly sleep deprived since getting more rest — and thereby becoming more focused — can help reduce automobile accidents in San Diego caused by drowsy driving.

A driver who fell asleep at the wheel last Friday serves as a sober reminder to all San Diegans of how important it is to stay focused on the road – and drive when well-rested.

The driver, whose name has not yet been released, was in an Acura on I-5 in La Jolla Friday when he hit an SUV, causing it to roll over several times before coming to a halt. The crash happened early Friday morning. Fortunately, drivers in both vehicles were treated for minor injuries as a result of the car accident.

The wreckage, according to reports at the San Diego Union Tribune, caused another accident just shortly thereafter as a motorcyclist tried to avoid the collision. The driver was thrown off his Kawasaki just moments after swerving and braking to avoid hitting the crash site. Fortunately, the motorcyclist was treated with minor injuries.

Sleep: not the only distraction behind the wheel

Sleep deprivation is one way people drive distracted behind the wheel in addition to cell phones, texting, applying makeup, eating, and even car technology. All of these dangerous habits can lead to an increased risk for personal injury in San Diego.

Consider the following ideas to help reduce your risk and keep the roads a safer place:

• Good rest is a must. It goes without saying, but getting a good night’s sleep before heading out is absolutely necessary, especially if you have a long drive ahead.
• Use rest stops if necessary. On long road trips, do not hesitate to use designated rest stops. For long trips, it’s particularly important to use the stops – don’t pull an “all-nighter” or try to gain extra miles in the face of sleepiness.
• Trade off a long drive with a qualified passenger. Even if you feel like you can make it all the way, consider taking turns on driving the route. If you’re riding solo, it’s never been more important to take intermittent breaks.

About the Law Offices of Michael Pines, APC

Michael Pines, personal injury attorney in San Diego, is a specialist in car accident law. Those who are injured in accidents in San Diego turn to Mike for expert representation against insurance companies who are eager to quickly – and sometimes unfairly – settle your claim. If you have been injured, our firm can help you get maximum financial compensation. Call a car accident lawyer today at 1-800-655-6585.

About Michael Pines

Michael Pines is a former insurance company attorney who specializes in car accident injury. While he was an insurance attorney, he learned from behind the scenes on how insurance companies work and how they decided to pay injured people. Now that he works against insurance companies, Michael's inside knowledge has resulted in significant benefits to his clients injured in car accidents.

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