Driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, that’s the message from Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
In a new report, developed with General Motors’ (GM) support, the organization has revealed the deadly consequences of driving tired which it said one in five drivers admitted to doing it at least once in the past month.
It said more than 6,300 people died in suspected drowsy driving crashes in 2023 – ten times higher than the 633 deaths officially reported in federal statistics.
GHSA’s analysis cross-referenced multiple sources, including the Fatality Analysis Reporting System and the Crash Investigation Sampling System.
The organization said the gap existed because fatigue, unlike alcohol or drugs, leaves no physical evidence that can be tested after a crash.
The report outlines several strategies to combat this dangerous behavior including:
- Promoting healthy sleep habits.
- Making the most of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features that can monitor for telltale signs of drowsiness (like yawns or long blinks).
- Changing the culture at work and school. Encouraging employers to implement responsible scheduling and travel policies to minimize fatigue and encouraging school districts to consider shifting high school start times later in the day to help teens get more rest.
- Building more, smarter infrastructure such as rest stops, rumble strips and cable median barriers.
“We talk about the dangers of drunk, drug-impaired and distracted driving – but drowsy driving belongs in the conversation, too,” said GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins.
“It’s the fourth ‘D’ that kills thousands every year; it’s time we give it the same urgency. By raising awareness among drivers, helping train law enforcement and expanding in-vehicle technologies, we can help ensure that fewer families experience the tragedy of a fatigue-related crash.”
