This kills more drivers than DUI and car accidents combined and it’s something you might not expect
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving is responsible for an estimated 100,000 motor vehicle accidents each year in the United States. These accidents result in approximately 1,500 deaths and 71,000 injuries.
As a driving school, Deer Valley Driving School wants to stress the importance of not driving when you are feeling tired or fatigued. This is especially important for teen drivers who may not have developed the experience or coping mechanisms to deal with the dangers of drowsy driving.
Studies have shown that driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The effects of sleep deprivation on the body can impair judgment, slow reaction time, and decrease awareness of surroundings.
Driving while fatigued can also increase the likelihood of drifting between lanes or off the road, as well as failing to react to changes in traffic patterns. This puts not only the driver at risk, but also passengers and other drivers on the road.
One of the most well-known cases of drowsy driving is the accident that killed James Dean in 1955. The actor was driving his Porsche 550 Spyder on a California highway when he collided with another vehicle. Dean died on the scene, and it was later determined that he had been driving while fatigued.
Unfortunately, this kind of tragedy is not unique. In fact, a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers who get less than seven hours of sleep per night are significantly more likely to be involved in a crash than those who get the recommended amount of sleep.
So what can be done to prevent drowsy driving accidents? The first step is recognizing the signs of fatigue and taking action to avoid driving in that state. Some common signs of drowsiness include:
Difficulty keeping your eyes open
Yawning frequently
Difficulty remembering the last few miles driven
Missing exits or turns
Drifting between lanes
Feeling restless or irritable
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to pull over in a safe location and take a break. Even a short nap or stretching your legs can help you feel more alert and focused.
It is also important to prioritize sleep in your daily routine. Teen drivers should aim for at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night to ensure they are well-rested for their daily activities, including driving.
Deer Valley Driving School encourages teen drivers and their parents to take drowsy driving seriously and to make a conscious effort to avoid driving while tired. Remember, the consequences of drowsy driving can be deadly. By prioritizing rest and being aware of the signs of fatigue, we can all work together to create safer roads for everyone.
