Most people throughout the Bay Area are aware of the risks posed by speeding, drunk driving and other negligent behaviors. Often, however, they overlook the potential hazards of driving while drowsy. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving accidents resulted in about 800 deaths in 2013, and many more suffered serious injuries. Based on one study, drivers across the U.S. regularly get behind the wheel while overly fatigued.
Examining the prevalence of drowsy driving
The American Automobile Association’s Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted a study to obtain updated estimates of the commonality of self-reported drowsy driving. To this end, researchers conducted a survey among motorists aged 16-years-old,
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Furthermore, 97 percent of the survey’s respondents indicated they do not believe it is okay to drive when they are so tired that it is difficult to keep their eyes open. This response is indicative of a general social disapproval for drowsy driving. Due to this disapproval, however, the researchers believe that the prevalence of motorists driving while drowsy may be greater than their estimates.
Why is drowsy driving dangerous?
The hazards of falling asleep while behind the wheel are somewhat obvious. However, mere drowsiness also poses serious risks for drivers. Fatigue may have a number of effects on motorists. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some of the most common of these include the following:
• Reduced ability to focus on the task of driving
• Impaired ability to make good decisions
• Slowed reaction times
Due to these effects, drivers may not be able to adjust to changes in driving conditions, control their vehicles or react to hazards on the road. As a result, they may cause auto accidents, which may have serious, or deadly, consequences for those