A drowsy driver may never see the traffic light. People find extra hours in the day by stealing hours from sleeping time. Sleeping less then four hours a night impairs the ability to function at peak performance. Research that shift workers receive approximately 1.5 hours less sleep than a dayshift worker every day. The midnight to 8 a.m. shift, in fact, carries the greatest risks.
Sleep is the only cure for sleep debt.
If you answered yes to any of the questions, you may be a drowsy driver. Make sure you get a good night's sleep, especially before taking a long trip. Don't mix alcohol or sedative medications with driving. If you think you have a sleep disorder, visit your doctor to see if a sleep study might be necessary. Try not to drive during your normal lull period, which is typically between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.