A problem for energetic teens?

What traffic safety problem that afflicts young people in particular has officials concerned? It's drowsy driving, which causes thousands of crashes every year.

Not only does sleepiness at the wheel lead to crashes when people fall asleep, but sleepy drivers don't react as quickly and aren't as aware of what's happening on the road.

People who work night shifts, long hours, or who are sleep-deprived for other reasons are susceptible to the problem. And research shows that young people, especially young men under 30, are particularly at risk.

Why? Blame it on a combination of schoolwork, part-time jobs, extracurricular activities, and nighttime fun with friends. In one study, teens with the most extracurricular activities had the most problems with being sleepy at the wheel.

Getting enough sleep, avoiding even small amounts of alcohol, and not driving in the wee hours of the morning are important ways to avoid driving drowsiness. According to the experts, taking a 15-20 minute nap, and consuming as much caffeine as in 2 cups of coffee, will help alertness for a while.

The key thing is this: When you start getting sleepy while on the road, stop driving.

Resources

Read the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports on drowsy driving.