Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, held each November, reminds us of the serious risks associated with drowsy driving. About 1 in 25 adults admit to falling asleep while driving. Many more acknowledge driving while overly tired, which can lead to serious and fatal car accidents. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that 6,400 people die each year in crashes linked to drowsy driving.
Drowsiness slows a driver's reaction time and reduces awareness of hazards, much like alcohol. According to the Sleep Foundation, driving after 20 hours of being awake is as dangerous as driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, the legal limit. Drowsy drivers may even experience "micro-sleeps," which are brief, involuntary lapses in attention. At highway speeds, a four-second micro-sleep means traveling the length of a football field without being fully aware.
How common are drowsy driving crashes?
Statistics on drowsy driving are challenging to confirm because it's hard to measure drowsiness at crash scenes. Still, NHTSA data shows 684 fatal crashes due to drowsy driving in 2021. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that drowsy driving contributes to around 328,000 crashes each year, resulting in 109,000 injuries and 6,400 deaths. These numbers indicate that drowsy driving is far more common than often reported. They cost society over $109 billion annually, not including property damage.
What can help reduce drowsy driving?
Several steps can help prevent drowsy driving and its devastating effects.
Crash-Avoidance Technologies
New car technologies that can help prevent drowsy driving crashes include drowsiness alerts and lane departure warnings. These technologies recognize drowsy driving behaviors and warn drivers to take action. These tools detect signs like drifting and alert drivers when a break may be needed.
Sleep Education for Adolescents and Young Adults
Teens need eight to ten hours of sleep but often get less. Parents can help by setting expectations around safe driving practices in parent-teen driving agreements. College programs promoting sleep health can also make a difference in helping young adults develop habits that reduce drowsy driving risks.
Better Sleep Habits and Medication Awareness
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises adults to aim for seven or more hours of sleep nightly. It's also important to check medication labels, as some drugs may cause drowsiness. Clear side-effect warnings can help drivers make informed choices.
Workplace Initiatives
Companies with strong safety programs can educate employees on the importance of rest and discourage drowsy driving. Even off-the-job wellness programs can remind employees about safe driving habits.
How can you spot signs of drowsy driving?
Assessing your alertness before driving can prevent dangerous situations. Here are key signs that you may be too tired to drive:
- Frequent yawning.
- Struggling to keep your eyes open or blinking often.
- Brief, involuntary head droops or "micro-sleeps."
- Trouble remembering recent miles.
- Swerving or drifting into another lane without realizing it.
- Missing road signs or turns.
- Struggling to keep a consistent speed or overcorrecting.
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