A recent analysis of federal traffic safety data estimates that about one in six fatal crashes involves a drowsy driver, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The foundation also found that two of five drivers admit to falling asleep at the wheel at least once, and that one in 10 have done so in the past year. More than one-quarter of those surveyed said they had driven despite being so tired they had a hard time keeping their eyes open.
The foundation said these percentages were much higher than previously thought. “Many of us tend to underestimate the negative effects associated with fatigue and sleep deprivation and conversely, overestimate our abilities to overcome them while driving,” an AAA spokeswoman said.
AAA recommends scheduling a break every two hours or 100 miles and getting at least six hours of sleep before a long trip.
