In our fast-paced lives, individuals struggle to obtain enough rest with their busy schedules, leading to 1 in 25 adults falling asleep behind the wheel according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition to inadequate sleep, medication and sleep disorders can induce fatigue and impair driving abilities.
Impact
Similar to drunk driving, drowsy driving has far-reaching and deadly consequences.
- When driving fatigued, reaction times, attention span, and awareness of potential hazards diminish.
- Driving without 20 hours of sleep equates to operating a vehicle with a 0.08% blood concentration level—the legal alcohol limit in the US.
- Sleep-deprived drivers may “microsleep” for four to five seconds at a time. Traveling at 55 MPH equates to driving over 100 yards while microsleeping.
- In response to a 2021 US survey launched by “The Zebra,” nearly 65% of respondents believe drowsy driving is just as dangerous as texting while driving.
Prevention
Addressing this issue is challenging with schedules marked by early mornings and long commutes. However, below are key tips to prevent fatigue behind the wheel.
- Sleep for seven to eight hours to stay well-rested, especially if you are a commercial or night shift driver or planning an extended car trip.
- Avoid driving during peak drowsy hours—between midnight to 6 am, or 2 to 4 pm.
- If your teenager can drive, they are more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel. Adolescents often require more rest than adults.
- Review your medications for drowsiness effects and talk to your doctor if you have sleep disorder symptoms. Call an Uber or taxi service if you need to travel.
- Remain vigilant of drowsy driving signs, including:
- Frequent yawning and nodding off.
- Inability to remember driving the last few miles.
- Difficulty maintaining the speed limit.
- Drifting out of your lane or hitting the rumble strips on the side of the roadway.
Intervention
If you start to drift off while driving, pull over in a well-lit and secure area, such as a rest station. If possible—take a 20-minute power nap and drink a cup of coffee. Caffein may increase alertness, but the effects are temporary and can provide a false sense of security.