These days, there are all sorts of distractions that drivers on the roads of North Georgia need to avoid. From fumbling with various music and entertainment options to the constant notifications on cellphones, drivers are increasingly putting themselves at risk, if they do not avoid distractions and keep their focus on the road in front of them. But, distractions are not the only problem. Can a sleepy driver be a concern on our roadways as well?
As it turns out, an example of how dangerous a sleepy driver can be popped up close to home. According to a recent report, an accident in DeKalb County on December 8 was the direct result of this type of negligent driver. The reports indicate that an ambulance driver, who was in the process of transporting a patient to the hospital, fell asleep at the wheel and ran a red light. It appears that in the ensuing mayhem a bus from Emory University careened off of the road and slammed into a nearby building.
The accident reportedly occurred at around 6:00 a.m. There were several Emory University students and employees on the bus. All told, the police, who were on the scene, reported that 10 people were transported for medical care, due to being injured in the auto accident, including the sleepy ambulance driver and the patients who were being transported.
The bus driver reportedly suffered the most severe injuries. He was listed in critical condition in the immediate aftermath of the crash.
Sleepy drivers can be dangerous drivers. We all get tired from time to time, but getting behind the wheel at such a time, even if it is part of our job, like it was for this ambulance driver, is never a good idea.
Source: WXIA, “Police: Sleeping ambulance driver caused Emory bus crash,” Dec. 8, 2015