As a driver on Kentucky roads, you aim to mind your own business. You engage in safe driving behaviors and you hope that the drivers around you do the same. Unfortunately, this does not always happen.
Some dangerous driving behaviors are harder to spot than others, too. Drowsy driving is often among them. In fact, many people do not even realize how risky drowsy driving often is.
Drowsy drivers share behaviors with DUI drivers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention examine the risks associated with drowsy driving. Drowsy drivers often exhibit dangerous behaviors that make DUI drivers so notorious. For example, drowsy drivers often:
- Have slower reaction times
- Cannot predict danger
- Have diminished reflexes
- Cannot concentrate on the task at hand or the road
There is also the possibility of falling asleep behind the wheel, one of the riskiest things of all. The state of unconsciousness makes it impossible for a driver to notice or react to danger. There is not even the chance of buffering potential damage before or as it occurs.
Drowsy driver involvement in head-on crashes
Drowsy drivers are also involved in head-on collisions often. This is one of the most deadly type of crashes out there. It is particularly risky on the highway, where cars are traveling around 60 to 70 miles per hour. Results of a crash at this speed are devastating.
Also, drowsy driving is widespread which increases its danger. Almost everyone knows at least one person who drives without enough sleep. Regardless of the reason for it, not getting more than 6 hours of sleep at night can result in drowsy driving. This can then lead to crashes, injury and even potential fatalities.