One in 24 Drivers Admit to Drowsy Driving

By Grant Law Office on January 14, 2013

One in 24 drivers say they have fallen asleep while driving, according to a recent study conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to an Associated Press news report, health officials believe that the number of people who drive while drowsy is probably even higher than that. The CDC study found that about four percent of Americans said they dozed off behind the wheel at least once while driving in the last 30 days.

The survey included 147,000 adult drivers and was conducted in 19 states and the District of Columbia in 2009 and 2010. Drowsy driving was found to be more common among men and in drivers who are between the ages of 25 and 34.

Approximately three percent of fatal traffic accidents involve sleepy drivers. Some of the warning signs of drowsiness include not remembering the last mile or two, drifting onto rumble strips, and not being able to keep your eyes open. These are all indicators that the driver should get off the road and get some rest. Experts say that even a brief moment of dozing off can be extremely dangerous.

There are several steps drivers can take to prevent drowsy driving. First, experts recommend seven to nine hours of sleep before embarking on a road trip. Do not drink alcohol or take any medications that can cause drowsiness. Try to drive with a friend or companion with whom you can have lively conversations – and stay awake while driving. If you are fatigued, pull over to a safe location and take a nap. It also helps to stop every now and then to stretch or go for a walk, particularly on long trips.

If a drowsy or negligent driver has injured you, please remember that you do have rights. The experienced Atlanta car accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Wayne Grant P.C. know how to pursue compensation from at-fault parties. Please contact us at (404) 995-3955 for a free and comprehensive consultation.