The term drowsy driving stands for operating a motor vehicle when feeling sleepy, and as you can guess, it remarkably increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and deaths. Unfortunately, it has become a widespread problem among adults which is why greater awareness of drowsy driving is needed. Fortunately, learning about the causes, consequences, and preventative measures can help in avoiding risks on the road. So, keep reading below!

Drowsy Driving Dangers

One of the major reasons for motor vehicle collisions is drowsy driving. In 2017, it caused 91,000 crashes, 50,000 injuries, and 800 deaths. However, it is sometimes impossible to determine whether or not driving when sleepy caused an accident which is why this data likely underestimates the impact of drowsy driving. According to studies, up to 6,000 deadly crashes are caused by drowsy driving every year and that about 20% of all fatal car crashes feature a person driving sleepy.

What’s more, although it sounds surprising drowsy driving is dangerous even if the driver doesn’t fall asleep. Research shows that lack of sleep causes mental impairment similar to drunkenness which makes a person less focused and attentive, and easily distracted. Sleep deprivation also slows down reaction time making it harder to avoid potential dangers and worsens decision-making leading to risk-taking behaviors.

Drowsy Driving Causes

Many factors can contribute to drowsy driving. Yet, the most common causes of driving while drowsy include:

• Sleep deprivation – Excessive daytime sleepiness is typically caused by lack of sleep and can result in microsleeps and other dangerous behaviors while driving.
• Sleep disorders – People with sleep disorders experience interrupted, restricted, and less restorative sleep. If left untreated, it causes daytime sleepiness.
• Alcohol – Alcohol consumption not only makes a person drowsy and sleepy but also negatively affects reaction time and decision-making.
• Medications – Sleepiness is a side effect of many medications, from prescription drugs to over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and sleep aids of course.
• Time of day –People typically feel most drowsy between midnight and 6 a.m. or in the mid-afternoon. These are also the times of most accidents caused by drowsy driving.

Also worth mentioning, even though drowsy driving can affect anyone, certain groups of people are at higher risk including those who drive for a living, those who work long hours, irregular shifts and night shifts, those who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders, and teenagers who aren’t experienced enough in driving and experience lack of sleep.

Drowsy Driving Signs

If you are driving, you have to be careful and know when to stop and rest. That said, if you notice any of the below-listed signs, take them seriously and exit or pull off the road.

• Frequent yawning
• Tired eyes
• Increased blinking
• Drifting into other lanes
• Missing road signs or exits
• Difficulty keeping proper speed

How to Avoid Drowsy Driving?

Luckily, certain steps can help you avoid drowsy driving. However, you shouldn’t only focus on the period of driving only, but also pay attention to the period before driving and your sleeping habits in general. So, let’s see the tips that can help you avoid the dangers of drowsy driving!

Before driving:

• Break long trips into smaller segments
• Avoid driving during the drowsiest times
• Get enough sleep the night before
• Don’t drink alcohol or other sedatives

While driving:

• Pay attention to warning signs
• Consume caffeine

Sleep habits:

• Follow a strict sleep schedule
• Avoid screen time before bed
• Make your bedroom sleep-friendly