Tired? Don’t Drive Drowsy November 2011

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driving drowsy causes more than 100,000 crashes per year, resulting in 40,000 injuries and 1,550 fatalities. Additionally, accidents caused by tired drivers will result in $12.5 billion in damages.

National Sleep Foundation PSA - Rewind Click to Watch

Facts about Driving When Tired According to National Sleep Foundation surveys, half of American adults admit to operating a vehicle while drowsy, and 20% say they have fallen asleep at the wheel within the past year. This means, at any given time on the road, there could be a driver in the lanes around you who may be too tired to drive. 

Facts about Driving When Tired Drivers who are overly tired typically experience diminished judgment and slower reaction times, similar to those who are under the influence of alcohol, drugs or are texting and driving. In fact, sleepiness or fatigue causes the following: Impaired vision, reaction time and judgment Trouble with short-term memory and information processing Reduced performance, attention and motivation Greater chances of moodiness and aggressive behaviors

Before “hitting the road” Get enough sleep (most adults need 7-9 hours to maintain proper alertness) Take breaks, especially on long road trips (about every 100 miles or 2 hours during long trips) Pull off the road, finding a safe spot to nap if you’re sleepy Take a buddy (someone to talk with and share the driving, especially if you get too tired to drive) Avoid using your mobile phone, alcohol and sedating medications (check your labels or ask your doctor)

Before “hitting the road” Consider a caffeinated beverage (The equivalent of 2 cups of coffee can keep you alert for several hours) Don’t rely on the radio or the wind from an open window to keep you awake Don’t drive at times you’d normally be sleeping Always, wear your seat belt (Click here to get more facts about drowsy driving.)

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