Despite growing awareness of distracted and impaired driving, drowsy driving remains a dangerously overlooked threat. According to the National Sleep Foundation’s 2024 Drowsy Driving Survey, half of all drivers admit they would still follow through with travel plans even after getting only 3 or 4 hours of sleep. This risky behavior contributes to over 20% of crash-related fatalities nationally. As fatigue continues to compromise driver judgment and reaction time, it's clear that sleep-deprived driving deserves urgent attention. [1]
What are the signs of drowsy driving?
- Swerving or drifting between lanes of traffic
- Struggling to stay awake and focused
- Yawning repeatedly
- Tailgating or missing traffic signals [2]
How to avoid drowsiness while driving
Focus on peak energy periods
There are predictable times of day when your energy level rises and falls. You are most likely to feel drowsy from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. [3]
Get a “power nap” boost
Take a 20-minute nap in a well-lit, safe place or switch driving responsibility to another.
Avoid impairing substances
Avoid medications that cause drowsiness, and never use alcohol or drugs, as they impair reflexes and alertness. [3]
Share the road
If you're taking a long trip, sharing driving duties with a partner and resting in shifts can help prevent drowsiness. [4]
Teens and drowsy driving
Teens are at high risk for drowsy driving due to lack of sleep and limited experience. Warning signs include yawning, drifting lanes, and trouble staying alert. Parents can help by promoting good sleep habits, limiting late-night driving, and encouraging teens to call for a ride if tired. [4]
Drowsy driving is a serious risk that causes thousands of crashes and deaths each year. Recognizing warning signs and taking simple precautions such as driving during alert hours, resting when needed, avoiding impairing substances, and sharing driving duties can help keep everyone safe on the road.
Learn more about how you can help create safer roads through Nationwide's distracted driving resources.