Sleep Deprived Teens Could Face Reckless Driving Charges

It is common for many teens to become sleep deprived between school, extracurricular activities, employment, and trying to fit friends and entertainment in as well. Unfortunately, burning the candle at both ends could result in tired teens driving dangerously and facing reckless driving charges because of it.

Drowsy driving

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that “…being sleepy affects your ability to drive safely even if you don’t fall asleep. Drowsiness –
• Makes drivers less able to pay attention to the road.
• Slows reaction time if you have to brake or steer suddenly.
• Affects a driver’s ability to make good decisions.”
According to the New York Department of Health, “Teens and young adults are at a high risk for drowsy driving because they have less driving experience and may not recognize the consequences of driving while tired.”

Consequences of driving tired

Teens who drive when they are sleep deprived could literally be putting other people in danger, much like driving intoxicated. The NYDH states that “driving while tired is comparable to driving with a blood alcohol content of .08, the legal limit of intoxication.” With that in mind, could driving drowsy be considered reckless driving? According to Utah Code 51-6a-528, “A person is guilty of reckless driving who operates a vehicle: (a) in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property”. Getting behind the wheel tired is a choice – a choice that could be disregarding the safety of others on the road. Teens should understand that just because they can somehow roll out of bed and mildly function after a short night of sleep doesn’t mean they should. For more information on charges related to drowsy driving, speak with a reputable attorney.