A tragic incident unfolded Sunday evening when a driver fell asleep at the wheel, veering off the road and striking a pedestrian along Interstate 35 in Warren County, Iowa. The accident, which occurred at around 6:35 p.m. on May 25, 2025, has prompted a renewed focus on the dangers of drowsy driving.
According to the Iowa State Patrol, 62-year-old Dale Loren Acker of Greenfield was driving southbound on I-35 near mile marker 62 in a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox when the incident occurred. Authorities report that Acker, who was driving alone, fell asleep behind the wheel, causing his vehicle to drift into the west ditch. Tragically, the vehicle struck 42-year-old Eric Gene Randolph, a pedestrian from Des Moines, who was walking along the roadside.
Randolph was immediately transported to a nearby hospital with unspecified injuries. At this time, his condition remains unclear, and further updates are expected from medical officials.
The Iowa State Patrol’s initial investigation suggests that drowsy driving was the primary factor contributing to the crash. Drowsy driving, which is often compared to drunk driving in terms of its potential for causing accidents, is a serious issue nationwide. Experts advise drivers to prioritize rest and pull over if they feel fatigued, as even short periods of sleep deprivation can impair driving abilities significantly.
Pedestrian Safety and Dangers of Drowsy Driving
This accident is a stark reminder of the critical importance of pedestrian safety, particularly on busy highways like I-35. While pedestrians are generally advised to walk on designated paths and avoid highways, situations like this emphasize the need for caution from all road users.
Drowsy driving is a growing concern across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving contributes to thousands of accidents each year, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities. Research from the NHTSA shows that a driver who has been awake for 18 hours has the same reaction time as someone with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 percent.
Iowa’s state officials have also raised concerns about the rising number of accidents related to driver fatigue. In 2023 alone, there were over 500 drowsy driving-related crashes in the state, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities.
In response to these alarming statistics, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has been working on initiatives to increase awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving. These efforts include public service campaigns, improved signage along high-risk highways, and enhanced law enforcement efforts to identify impaired or fatigued drivers.
The Importance of Staying Alert Behind the Wheel
Iowa officials are urging drivers to take all necessary precautions before hitting the road. The Iowa State Patrol recommends taking regular breaks on long trips, especially when driving for extended hours, and avoiding the consumption of alcohol or heavy meals prior to driving.
Additionally, the Iowa DOT encourages all drivers to plan their trips carefully and adjust their schedules to ensure they are well-rested before taking to the road. For those traveling long distances, sharing driving duties with a companion is strongly advised.
For more information about drowsy driving prevention, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Iowa Department of Transportation.
