What is Drowsy Driving?

Drowsy driving is the dangerous combination of driving when sleepy. This usually happens when a driver has not slept enough, but it can also happen because of untreated sleep disorders or shift work. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can also cause drowsiness, and alcohol can interact with sleepiness to increase both impairment and drowsiness.

Did You Know?

  • According to a CDC survey, an estimated 1 in 25 adult drivers (aged 18 years or older) reported having fallen asleep while driving in the previous 30 days.

  • According to the same CDC survey, adult drivers who snore or usually sleep 6 or fewer hours per day were more likely to report falling asleep while driving than drivers who do not snore or usually sleep 7 or more hours per day, respectively.

  • Drowsy driving was involved in 91,000 crashes in 2017—resulting in 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths. In 2020, there were 633 deaths based on police reports. However, these numbers are underestimated, and over 6,000 fatal crashes each year may involve a drowsy driver.

Prevention

  • Do not drive if you don’t get enough sleep. You always have options. Walk, ride the bus, Uber, ride with a friend, bike. Driving while sleep impaired is never an option.

  • Getting enough sleep: According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society, adults should get seven or more hours of sleep each night and teens should get 8-10 hours of sleep.

  • Crash avoidance technologies: New and existing safety technologies, such as drowsiness alerts and lane departure warnings, can detect common drowsy driving patterns and warn drivers to stay in their lane or take a break.

  • Sleep Disorder: If you have a sleep disorder or have symptoms of a sleep disorder such as snoring or feeling sleepy during the day, talk to your doctor about treatment options.

  • University interventions: College students receive less than average sleep, with some estimates at less than six hours a night; education programs aimed at college students may help curb drowsy driving and instill healthier behaviors that can last into adulthood.

  • Medication labels: An article by Consumer Reports found that side-effect warnings are not always clear; new labeling guidelines may help drivers understand when to drive or not drive after taking these medications.

  • Alcohol: Before you drive, avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol impairs the skills needed for driving and increases drowsiness.

  • Employers: Workplaces with strong off-the-job safety and health programs can include key information on getting sufficient sleep and refraining from driving drowsy.

Warning Signs

  • Thinking cold air and loud music will get you safely to your destination.

  • Yawning or blinking frequently.

  • Trouble remembering the past few miles driven.

  • Missing your exit.

  • Drifting from your lane.

  • Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road.