Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Most drivers in Colorado understand the dangers of drunk or drugged driving. What many don’t realize, however, is that driving while tired—or “drowsy driving”—can be just as dangerous. At our Colorado personal injury law firm, we have represented far too many clients who were seriously injured because another driver chose to get behind the wheel without adequate rest.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving is responsible for an estimated 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,500 deaths every year in the United States. These alarming numbers show just how serious fatigue-related accidents can be.
Why Drowsy Driving is So Dangerous
Driving requires full attention, quick reflexes, and good judgment. When a driver is sleep-deprived, their ability to operate a vehicle safely becomes significantly impaired:
- Reduced concentration – Fatigue makes it harder to stay focused on the road.
- Slower reaction times – A tired driver may not brake or swerve quickly enough to avoid a crash.
- Poor decision-making – Fatigue affects judgment, making drivers more likely to misjudge distances or overlook hazards.
- Risk of falling asleep – In the most severe cases, a driver may nod off entirely, creating catastrophic risks for everyone on the road.
Just like alcohol or drugs, fatigue alters brain function and delays response times, increasing the likelihood of devastating accidents.
Warning Signs of Fatigue Behind the Wheel
Colorado drivers should be aware of the warning signs of drowsy driving, which can include:
- Frequent yawning or blinking
- Blurred vision or trouble keeping eyes open
- Drifting from your lane
- Missing traffic signs or exits
- Trouble remembering the last few miles driven
If you notice these signs, it’s critical to pull over to a safe location and rest. Continuing to drive while fatigued puts both you and others in serious danger.
Preventing Fatigue-Related Accidents
Fortunately, drowsy driving accidents are preventable. Experts recommend:
- Getting 7–9 hours of sleep each night
- Taking regular breaks on long trips
- Drinking caffeine for short-term alertness
- Taking a 15–20 minute power nap before driving long distances
- Avoiding driving late at night or during your body’s natural “low points”
These simple steps can make the difference between arriving safely and causing a tragic accident.
Colorado Law on Drowsy Driving and Exemplary Damages
In Colorado, driving while fatigued can carry serious legal consequences beyond traditional liability. In certain cases, a court may award exemplary (punitive) damages if a driver’s behavior is deemed “willful and wanton conduct.”
Under C.R.S. § 13-21-102(1)(b), this means conduct that is “purposefully committed with an awareness of the risk and disregard of the consequences.” Colorado courts have interpreted this standard to include reckless behavior that creates a substantial risk of harm to others.
What does this mean for drowsy drivers? If you knowingly drive while exhausted, and your actions result in an accident, you may face punitive damages in addition to traditional civil liability. Importantly, punitive damages are not typically covered by auto insurance in Colorado, which could leave negligent drivers personally responsible for paying these damages.
How a Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a drowsy driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages (in cases of willful and wanton conduct)
At our firm, we fight aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the maximum compensation possible for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is drowsy driving really as dangerous as drunk driving?
Yes. Studies show that being awake for 18 hours can impair driving ability as much as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%. At 24 hours, it’s equivalent to a BAC of 0.10%—above the legal limit in Colorado.
2. Can I sue a driver who caused an accident because they were tired?
Absolutely. If fatigue played a role in your accident, a Colorado personal injury lawyer can help prove negligence and pursue compensation.
3. What should I do if I suspect the other driver was fatigued?
Document as much evidence as possible, including witness statements and accident reports. An attorney can subpoena records such as work schedules to demonstrate fatigue.
4. Are truck drivers more likely to cause fatigue-related crashes?
Yes. Commercial truck drivers often face long hours and strict deadlines, making them particularly vulnerable to fatigue-related accidents.
5. What are punitive damages in Colorado car accident cases?
Punitive (exemplary) damages are designed to punish reckless behavior, not just compensate victims. In drowsy driving cases, this can apply when a driver knowingly chooses to drive while dangerously fatigued.
6. Do I need a lawyer for a drowsy driving accident claim?
While not legally required, having an experienced attorney dramatically improves your chances of recovering fair compensation, especially in cases involving punitive damages.
Final Thoughts
Drowsy driving in Colorado is a serious and preventable danger. Just like drunk driving, it puts innocent lives at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured by a fatigued driver, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced Colorado personal injury lawyers are here to help you seek justice, hold negligent drivers accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve.
👉 Learn more about our motor vehicle accident practice and our truck accident representation.