Highway hypnosis, also known as “white line fever,” is when someone goes into a trance-like state-of-mind while driving. Typically, this trance-like state occurs when the driver is either extremely tired or driving on a monotonous road with little traffic. When the driver arrives at their destination, they may have no memory of getting there. Although highway hypnosis is a common occurrence, it can potentially cause dangerous, even fatal, car accidents. Below, our car accident attorney at Tolbert Beadle, LLC discuss some of the dangers of highway hypnosis and how you can prevent it.
Causes of Highway Hypnosis
Highway hypnosis can occur for a number of reasons. Although it is typically associated with long drives, drivers can fall into this semi-conscious state even when they are driving through busy city streets. Common causes of highway hypnosis include fatigue, boredom, lack of driver stimulation, experiencing long and monotonous drives with few changes in scenery, and driving along long and straight roads with little traffic. As drivers experience highway hypnosis, they are still able to drive, but their reaction times are slower, which increases their risk of causing a car accident.
The Dangers of Highway Hypnosis
A car accident attorney knows that when drivers experience highway hypnosis, they increase their chances of causing dangerous, potentially fatal, car accidents. When drivers are in this trance-like state, their reaction times are much slower, meaning they cannot effectively respond to changes in road conditions. For example, a driver experiencing highway hypnosis can easily run through stop signs and red lights, run over bumps and debris along the road, and ram into other cars that pull out in front of them. Although it is difficult to judge just how many accidents are directly caused by highway hypnosis, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that the condition is linked to approximately 100,000 accidents a year.
Highway Hypnosis as a Defense in Court
Car accident attorneys are often asked if highway hypnosis can be used as a defense in court. Afterall, it is a fairly common occurrence.
Unfortunately, despite the commonality of highway hypnosis, it generally cannot be used a defense in court. Typically, highway hypnosis is treated as drowsy driving or even reckless driving in court, and a driver who caused an accident because of highway hypnosis may find themselves in civil court, sued for property damages and personal injury expenses. If you find yourself in court because of a car accident, be sure to contact a car accident attorney.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you were recently involved in a car crash, a car accident attorney can help. At Tolbert Beadle, LLC, we fight for you, ensuring your rights are protected and you get the compensation you deserve. To learn how you can benefit from the services of a car accident attorney, contact Tolbert Beadle, LLC today.
