Driving while fatigued can have devastating consequences, as seen in a tragic accident last year on the Cotton Lane Bridge in Goodyear. A fatigued driver of a pickup truck veered into a bike lane, resulting in the deaths of two cyclists and injuries to 14 others. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), fatigue played a significant role in the driver’s diminished alertness, which led to this catastrophic crash.

Fatigue impairs your ability to focus and react to situations on the road. When you are tired, your judgment and response time are compromised, making it easier to make fatal mistakes. In this case, the driver’s inability to respond quickly, combined with his speed, contributed to the severity of the injuries sustained by the cyclists.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder that driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Before getting behind the wheel, ask yourself if you are well-rested and alert enough to drive safely. If you feel drowsy or fatigued, pull over and rest. Lives depend on your ability to stay focused on the road.

At Valley Injury Lawyers, we urge all drivers to take fatigue seriously. The consequences of pushing through tiredness can be irreversible and heartbreaking. Stay safe, stay alert, and always prioritize the well-being of everyone on the road.