101 Critical Days of Summer: Sleepy drivers cause of serious accidents in U.S.

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Eliza Richburg
  • 341st Security Forces Group
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Drowsy driving is a serious problem that leads to thousands of automobile crashes each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there have been roughly 56,000 traffic accidents each year in which the driver's drowsiness and fatigue were cited by police. 

The annual average for non-fatal injuries was about 40,000 and 1,500 fatalities as a result of these accidents. The nature of our job duties, our attempt to maximize the use of our leave days and our relatively young military does not exempt Team Malmstrom from these statistics. 

The NHTSA identified three population groups at the highest risk. These groups include:
- Young people (ages 16-29), especially males;
- Shift workers whose sleep is disrupted by working night or working long or irregular hours; and
- People with untreated sleep disorders. 

Warriors at Malmstrom definately  meet the first two categories with no problems; maybe even the third category too if it's not reported or untreated. 

What are some of the characteristics of a drowsy driving incident?
- It occurs during late night, early morning or mid-afternoon;
- It is likely to be serious;
- The accident occurs on a high speed road or highway (speed limit 55-65 mph);
- The driver is alone in the vehicle; and
- The driver does not attempt to avoid the accident. 

We implement operational risk management in our day-to-day operations, both on- and off-duty. We evaluate situations in an effort to make the right choices. To prevent drowsy driving and its consequences, we must inform personnel, friends and family members on ways to reduce the risks. 

Here are some helpful behaviors that may reduce the risk of becoming drowsy while driving:
- Get adequate sleep before starting your trip;
- Drive during normal waking hours;
- Avoid all alcohol before driving;
- Limit night driving, especially between midnight and 6 a.m.;
- Plan trips to avoid drowsy and fatigued times;
- Schedule rest breaks for long journeys;
- Plan multiple driver on long journeys;
- Avoid large meals before a long drive; and
- If drowsy or fatigued, pull over and stop driving. 

(Information courtesy of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and www.smartmotorist.com)