NEW YORK, Sep 9, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Many teens heading back to school are
sleep deprived as they drive to and from school, increasing their accident risk,
U.S. researchers say.
David Reich, spokesman for the National Road Safety Foundation, says drowsy
driving is a risky behavior common among young drivers. The National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration estimates more than 100,000 crashes every year are
due to driver fatigue, resulting in more than 1,500 deaths and 71,000 injuries.
Reich says there are several signs that warn a driver to stop and rest:
-- Difficulty focusing and frequent blinking.
-- Daydreaming, not remembering the last few miles driven.
-- Head nodding.
-- Repeated yawning, rubbing eyes.
-- Drifting out of lane, tailgating, hitting rumble strips.
A driver who experiences any of these should pull over at the next exit or a
safe rest area and take a break or a 20-minute nap, Reich suggests.
Have a cup of coffee or caffeinated snacks and allow 30 minutes for the caffeine
to enter the bloodstream. Don't drink alcohol or take medication, Reich adds.
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