Many drivers admit to driving drowsy

Drowsy driving has become a very dangerous driving habit in the U.S. A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that one in 24 adults admitted to falling asleep while driving shows just how dangerous this behavior has become.

It is estimated that three percent of all fatal car accidents are caused by drowsy drivers every year, according to government data. Other studies have said that as high as 33 percent of fatal car accidents are caused by drowsy drivers.

The study found that four percent of U.S. drivers admitted to nodding off or falling asleep behind the wheel at least once during the past month. Who is more likely to drive drowsy? The study says that drowsy driving was more common among men, drivers between the ages of 25 and 34 and people who got less than six hours of sleep. The study was done in 19 states in 2009 and 2010.

Researchers were not surprised by the findings of the study, stating that many Americans do not get a sufficient amount of sleep. Health experts said that there are several ways to prevent drowsy driving. The best way is to get an adequate amount of sleep. Health officials recommend between seven to nine hours of sleep per night and to treat any sleep disorders.

With drowsy driving becoming so common, drivers should be aware of the warning signs of drowsy driving. The most common signs include feeling very sleepy, not remembering the last few miles that were driven and swaying or drifting between lanes. Drivers who notice that they are too tired to drive safely should pull over and stop driving until they get some rest.

Source: Huffington Post, “Drowsy Driving: Report Shows 1 in 24 Admit Nodding Off While Behind The Wheel,” Mike Stobbe, Jan. 3, 2013