Driving while drowsy has the same detrimental effects on road safety as driving while drunk. Motor skills are greatly diminished when driving after insufficient sleep. Not getting enough sleep and getting behind the wheel is like driving immediately after drinking several beers.
In the U.S., drowsy driving is a major public health and safety issue, frequently referred to as the “fourth D” after drunk, drugged, and distracted driving. One in five fatal car accidents are caused by drowsy drivers, according to research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. This risky behavior endangers everyone sharing the road, especially since fatigued drivers often fail to recognize the depth of their tiredness.
How being drowsy affects the driver
Driving when drowsy impairs various skills that a driver needs behind the wheel, causing them to experience the following problems:
- The ability to judge speed and distance: Tired drivers experience slower response times and impaired judgment, which complicates their ability to judge distances and speeds.
- Slow or delayed reactions: Similar to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drowsy driving can slow down one’s reflexes, making it more difficult to respond swiftly and prevent collisions.
- Falling asleep behind the wheel: Among the many dangers of driving when sleepy is the possibility of passing out behind the wheel, which increases the likelihood of crashes with other vehicles and fixed objects, such as guard rails or traffic signs.
- The inability to concentrate: A motorist who is focused on staying awake while behind the wheel is less likely to concentrate on the road or obstructions. (i.e., orange barrels and construction.)
- A lack of judgment: When you’re sleepy behind the wheel, you tend to make poor decisions. Fatigue and lack of sleep slow down your brain, making it difficult to make safe driving choices.
Driving while drowsy is a dangerous choice. If you are injured by a drowsy driver, seek legal guidance.