While any driver can be at risk for drowsy driving, adults between the ages of 18 and 26 are in one of the highest risk groups because they tend to stay up late, sleep too little and drive at night. According to James B. Maas, Ph.D. professor at Cornell University and author of the book Power Sleep. Being very drowsy is just as dangerous as drinking and driving. Sleeplessness and its effects on performance is very much a part of the American landscape. The dangerous driver is the one who is asleep, but won't admit it.
Experts point out that nobody is immune to falling asleep at the wheel.
She cites studies showing that, over the past century, Americans have shortened their sleep time by as much as 20 percent. Though individual needs vary greatly, on an average, people require seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Often, they get much less. And though many believe it's okay to skimp on sleep the biological fact is that it's as necessary as food and water. You tend to blink more often, and this can be extremely hazardous when you're driving.