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North Carolina Issues a Wake-up Call to All Motorists

27 March 2000

GHSP Director Urges Drivers Not to Drive While Drowsy

    RALEIGH, N.C. - North Carolina is calling on all motorists to recognize and 
counter the signs of drowsy driving during National Sleep Awareness Week, which 
starts today and will continue through April 2.

    Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
show that approximately 100,000 crashes a year (about 1.5% of all crashes)
involve drowsiness or fatigue as a principle factor.  Additionally, at least
1,500 people a year die nationwide due to crashes in which someone has fallen
asleep at the wheel.

    In North Carolina, statistics show that less than one percent of crashes
occur due to driver fatigue.  However, Joe Parker, director of the Governor's
Highway Safety Program, still warns motorists of the very tragic consequences
of driving while drowsy.

    "There are many factors that can contribute to drowsy driving, such as
sleep deprivation, fatigue, driving on long trips and taking certain
medications," Parker said.  "These factors can easily make a driver less aware
while on the road, and can ultimately cause them to fall asleep at the wheel."

    Parker also emphasized that young drivers, commercial truck drivers and
shift workers are especially susceptible to fatigue.  Sleep-related crashes
are most common in young people, who tend to stay up late, sleep too little
and drive at night.  In North Carolina, 55 percent of sleep-related crashes
involve people 25 years of age or younger.

    To help counter the effects of drowsy driving, motorists should know the
warning signs of fatigue.  Drivers who can't remember the last few miles they
have driven, drift from their lanes, yawn repeatedly, have difficulty focusing
or tend to tailgate should respond by giving themselves a break from driving.

    Preventive measures motorists should take into consideration to prevent
drowsy driving include getting a good night's sleep before a long trip,
scheduling regular stops, driving with a companion and avoiding alcohol and
medications.