Statistics

• Younger drivers were more likely to drive drowsy than older drivers (73% of 18-29 year olds, 62% of 30-64 year olds, 32% of those 65 years or older)
• 60% of parents who have children old enough to drive say that they have not discussed the dangers of falling asleep at the wheel with their children who drive
• 62% of adults have driven drowsy in the past year (72% men, 54% women)

1999 Onmibus Sleep in America poll by The National Sleep Foundation

Most Common Risks and Causes for Drowsy Driving Crashes

• Sleep loss
• Driving patterns -- drivinglate night hours 12am - 6am
• Use of sedating medications
• Untreated or unrecognized sleep disorders
• Use of alcohol
• Job-related sleep restriction
• An ACTIVE lifestyle that restricts sleep is a special risk

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Drowsy Driving Crash Characteristics

• The problem occurs during late night/early morning or midafternoon
• The crash is likely to be serious
• A single vehicle leaves the roadway
• The crash occurs on a high speed road
• The driver does not attempt to avoid a crash
• The driver is alone in the vehicle

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration