Drowsy drivers not just in trucks

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 7, 2000) — With all the focus on truck driver fatigue during debates over hours-of-service rules, a U.S.-based research group is calling on the federal government there to crack down on sleepy drivers of all vehicles.

The National Sleep Foundation is rolling out an educational tour featuring the results of its Sleep Census 2000 poll. According to the survey, about one-half of adults in the U.S. (51%) report driving while drowsy in the past year; nearly one out of five (17%) have actually dozed off while driving.

And according to the survey, it looks like driving while drowsy could also help contribute to road rage. About 42% of adults surveyed said they become stressed while driving when drowsy. Nearly one-third of drivers (32%) reported becoming impatient when driving drowsy, and 12% said they drive faster when they feel drowsy.

Nevertheless, Americans seem more concerned about fatigue among truck drivers. Ninety-two percent are “very” or “somewhat concerned” about the number of hours transportation workers drive.