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Drowsy Driving: Facts, Signs and Prevention Methods

Staying up for more than 20 hours can make you as impaired as reaching the blood alcohol limit of 0.08%.

January 11, 2021
Drowsy Driving: Facts, Signs and Prevention Methods

More than 100,000 accidents are caused by drowsy driving each year.

Photo via Chris Yarzab/Flickr.

1 min to read


Drowsy driving is a common experience that can lead to fatal accidents. Safety.com recently compiled a list of six drowsy driving facts that shine light on the importance of getting enough sleep before getting behind the wheel:

  1. Staying up for more than 20 hours can make you as impaired as reaching the blood alcohol limit of 0.08%.

  2. More than 100,000 accidents are caused by drowsy driving each year.

  3. More than half of drivers (59%) were behind the wheel for less than an hour before falling asleep and getting into an accident.

  4. Younger drivers (aged 16-24) were more likely to be involved in a crash.

  5. Men (52%) were more likely to report falling asleep behind the wheel than women (30%).

  6. You’re capable of driving the length of a football field during 4-5 seconds of micro-sleep.

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Some of the warning signs of drowsy driving include struggling to focus on the road, trouble keeping your eyes open, inability to stay in your lane, and more. 

Originally posted on Work Truck Online

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