Drowsy Driving: National Sleep Awareness Week - March 3-9, 2008
Released: February 21, 2008
Almost everyone is aware of the dangers of drinking and driving. However, not everybody may be aware that driving while drowsy can be equally dangerous. Fortunately, by taking the proper steps, drowsy driving can easily be avoided.
Drowsy driving is classified as either falling asleep when driving or not paying attention to the road or traffic around you. Sheriff Dennis John and Public Health Director Barbara Hastings of Cattaraugus County warn that drowsy driving can result from lack of sleep or severe fatigue. It can be just as dangerous as driving drunk, because falling asleep even for a few seconds can result in serious injury or death to you or someone else.
Although drowsy driving can lead to serious injuries or even death, there are ways to avoid it completely. The Sheriff's Office and Health Department recommends either pulling over and taking a brief nap, or, if possible, switching to another licensed driver if you start experiencing signs of sleepiness. The warning signs of drowsy driving include, but are not limited to inability to stop yawning, difficulty keeping your eyes open, inability to recall the last few miles driven, and daydreaming or disconnected thinking. Other signs can include sloppy driving, such as weaving between lanes, missing traffic signs, or driving on the rumble strips on the shoulder of the road.
Many of us can become fatigued as the workday progresses. Those who fall into this category should consider other alternatives before attempting to drive home while fatigued. If possible, carpool with someone who lives in your neighborhood. Or, use public transportation if available. If these options are not viable, call a family member to pick you up, or if you must drive, at least take a short nap before starting out.
Shift workers are at high risk for drowsy driving because they typically get less sleep and keep longer hours than traditional workers. Our bodies are governed by internal clocks, making it harder to sleep in the middle of the day.
If you must drive home after a full day of work, try following up a cup of coffee or two with a short nap. Sleeping will allow the caffeine to take effect, thus making you more alert for your trip home. However, if you consume caffeine regularly, this strategy may not work out for you. It is a common misperception that turning up the radio, singing, eating, or opening up the window will prevent you from falling asleep behind the wheel. However, the reality is that none of these activities will keep you awake when driving.
Becoming a new parent can significantly increase the likelihood of drowsy driving. Getting enough sleep can often seem an impossibility when bringing a newborn home. However, not getting the rest you need can put you, your baby, and countless other drivers in harm's way.
If you consistently have problems falling asleep or staying asleep, you may be suffering from a sleep disorder. "You should consult your doctor or physician if these symptoms continue, or to learn about the side effects of any medications you are taking," Sheriff John and Mrs. Hastings advise.
For more information on drowsy driving and ways to prevent it, call the Health Department at 716-373-8050 or 1-800-251-2584, or visit the New York State Health Department web site at www.nyhealth.gov.