Wake Up.... You Are The Driver

The roads during this time of year are notoriously busy. With so many on the roads going here and there the roads can get a bit crazy. Some are good drivers, some are not so good and then there are those that need to be taking a nap rather than driving. Drowsy driving is a major issue on the roads. Adding to the struggles of driving in tough conditions the risk, danger and at times tragic results of drowsy driving can be overwhelming.

Drowsy driving takes place when a driver becomes sleepy or fatigued while driving. If the driver has not slept enough, has a sleep disorder, takes medication or is a shift worker. Being tired affects the ability of the driver to drive safely even if they do not fall asleep. Drowsy driving leads to:

• drivers having less able to pay attention to the road
• drivers have slower reaction time if the need to brake or steer suddenly
• affects drivers ability to make good decisions

Facts about Driving Drowsy

Around 1 out of every 25 adult drivers ages 18 or older report having fallen asleep while driving in the past 30 days

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving was responsible for 72,000 crashes, 44,000 injuries and 800 deaths

Drivers more likely to drive drowsy include:

• drivers that do not get enough sleep
• commercial drivers who operate vehicles such as tow trucks, tractor trailers and buses
• Those that work the night shift or long shifts
• untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea
• drivers who take medications that make them sleepy 

While those are the largest categories of drivers who often drive drowsy we are all acceptable to the issue. Before getting in the car to take that drive be sure that you have had enough sleep and avoid taking any medications that may make you sleepy. 

Be Safe Out There

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