Drowsy Driving Is More Serious Than You Think

Updated May 29, 2019

It’s almost time for the annual rite of passage: stuffing ourselves with turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving dinner. Soon after, a food coma will ensue, and we’ll find ourselves conked out on the couch for the remainder of the evening. If you’re traveling this holiday season, make sure you’re well rested before starting your journey home.

Drowsy Driving Is Dangerous Driving

According to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in America poll, 60 percent of drivers—about 168 million people—say they have driven a vehicle while feeling drowsy. Four percent—approximately 11 million drivers—admit they have had an accident or near accident because they dozed off or were too tired to drive. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 2.5 percent of fatal crashes and 2 percent of injury crashes involve drowsy driving.

Signs of Drowsy Driving

Here are some signs that a driver should stop and rest:

• Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
• Daydreaming or wandering thoughts
• Trouble remembering the last few miles driven
• Missing exits or traffic signs
• Yawning repeatedly or rubbing your eyes
• Trouble keeping your head up
• Drifting from your lane or hitting the shoulder rumble strip
• Feeling restless or irritable

If you find yourself getting drowsy behind the wheel, find a place to pull over and doze for a few minutes, change drivers, or grab a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage.

Wilson Kehoe Winingham brings you this information with best regards for you and your family’s safety.

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