GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is urging drivers to take drowsy driving seriously, noting that it can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. With fatigue-related crashes on the rise, CSP is raising awareness to help prevent accidents caused by sleep-deprived drivers.
The Growing Risk of Drowsy Driving
According to CSP’s data, 2024 saw an increase in accidents attributed to drowsy driving, with fatal and injury crashes on the rise. CSP reports that there were 44 fatigue-related lane violation crashes in 2024, up from 39 in 2023, marking a 12% increase. The issue has been escalating since 2020, when there were 27 such crashes—a 38.6% rise over four years.
Col. Matthew C. Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol, emphasized the danger of driving while fatigued, explaining that “fatigue physically and mentally impacts the abilities of a driver – it has effects on a driver’s attention span, judgment, coordination, and reaction time.”
The Impact of Fatigue on Driving Performance
Fatigue impairs a driver’s concentration, reaction time, and coordination, making it more challenging to navigate the road safely. Research from the National Safety Council shows that the effects of drowsy driving can closely mimic the impairment caused by alcohol. Yet, drowsy driving is often overlooked in public discussions about road safety.
“Operating a vehicle safely requires a person’s full attention and focus,” Packard said. He noted that shift workers, commercial drivers, and those with irregular sleep patterns are at especially high risk, although anyone with insufficient rest is vulnerable to drowsiness behind the wheel.
Signs of Drowsy Driving
Recognizing the symptoms of drowsy driving can help prevent accidents. CSP highlights the following warning signs for drivers to watch for:
- Heavy eyelids or frequent blinking
- Yawning frequently
- Trouble focusing or daydreaming
- Drifting between lanes
- Hitting a rumble strip
- Drooping head
- Forgetting the last few miles driven
- Missing exits or traffic signs
- Feeling restless, irritable, or aggressive, such as tailgating
Drivers experiencing any of these symptoms are advised to pull over at a safe location and take a short nap. CSP suggests that a 20-minute nap can significantly improve alertness, helping to avoid the dangers of drowsy driving.
Recommendations for Safe Driving
CSP encourages drivers to take precautions to ensure they’re well-rested before hitting the road. Here are some practical tips to prevent drowsy driving:
- Plan Ahead: Get at least seven hours of sleep before a long drive.
- Schedule Breaks: Plan to take breaks every two hours or 100 miles.
- Use the Buddy System: For long trips, travel with a companion who can share driving duties.
- Avoid Sedatives: Avoid any medications that cause drowsiness, as they can impair alertness.
Raising Awareness for Road Safety
Through their awareness campaign, CSP aims to educate drivers on the severe impact of drowsy driving and encourage preventative measures. “We don’t often talk about fatigue and drowsiness,” said Packard. “Sleep-related issues aren’t uncommon and there is an impact on a person’s ability to drive safely.”
The goal is to reduce fatigue-related crashes and make Colorado’s roads safer for everyone.
