Driving While Drowsy: Just As Dangerous As Driving Drunk
Sleep problems are deadly: The National Sleep Foundation has reported that driving while drowsy is just as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol. In fact, drowsy driving may be a bigger threat than drunk driving - after all, most people wouldn’t think of driving if they’d had one too many, however, most of us wouldn’t think twice about driving while fatigued.
Being drowsy or sleepy while driving results in slower reaction times, vision impairment (it is tough to focus when you can barely keep your eyes open, after all), lapses in judgment, and delays in processing information - all critical elements for safe driving and avoiding accidents. Furthermore, being exhausted tends to take its toll on your mood - drowsy drivers are more prone to road rage and other aggressive behaviors.
Although caffeine, fresh air, and loud music are often used by tired drivers to wake themselves up, the number one way to ensure you do not end up driving drowsy? Get a good night’s sleep the night before, particularly the night before you embark on a long drive. And if you have trouble sleeping, of course, listening to Speed Sleep can help solve that problem (just don’t listen to it while driving).
Tags: Dangers of Sleep Deprivation, Drowsy Driving