The start of a new school year is upon us, and with it comes a higher risk for accidents during your morning commute.
That's right—teen-related car crashes can be tied to early classes. Young drivers are already the most likely group of individuals to crash a motor vehicle—they are five to ten times more likely to crash when compared to drivers of the safest group—and those odds only increase in the early mornings when school starts back up again.
But why?
Sleep deprivation and driving
Did you know that drowsy driving can have similar effects on your body as drinking alcohol? For teenagers, sleep deprivation is a way of life. Whether it be the overwhelming demands of high school courses, the idea that they must be socially active in order to fit in with their peers, boyfriends and girlfriends, homework, or the early start times of their first classes, there is no denying that young drivers struggle to get adequate sleep on a daily basis.
In fact, the epidemic is so shocking that the most recent national poll concluded that over 87 percent of high school students fail to get the recommended eight-ten hours of sleep every night. This makes those students who drive far more dangerous. When drivers are exhausted, they:
- Experience higher levels of stress
- Are sometimes unable to make smart decisions consciously
- Have slower reaction times
- Cannot focus on the road for long periods of time
So, what can you do keep you and your family safe despite the imminent dangers when school begins?
1. Make sure that you are getting adequate sleep. Student drivers aren't the only people who are tired during the morning hours of the day. An estimated one in every 25 adult drivers say they have actually fallen asleep while driving during the last month. An easy way to become part of the solution - not the problem - is to make an effort to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Doing so will not only help you stay awake while driving to work, but it will also keep you more alert so you can drive defensively if an emergency arises.
2. Don't rush out the door. Take your time in the mornings when possible. Moving slowly through your morning routine and commute will reduce your anxiety, thus helping you remain focused on the road and any potential hazards that stand between you and your destination.
3. Caffeine, anyone? While too much caffeine can bring about serious health problems, a cup of Joe to start your day can help to improve your cognitive abilities. Caffeine works by acting as a stimulant for your central nervous system. It basically tricks your body into thinking you are not tried by working its way to the body's adenosine receptors. Sip back 100-200 milligrams of coffee roughly 15 minutes before you walk out the door to feel the stimulant's full effects!
You can only do so much to defend yourself from young drivers, especially when school starts, and their sleep levels are at an all-time low. But you need to remember that there are things you can do and taking action to put yourself in the safest position possible is your responsibility.
Sinclair Broadcast Group is committed to keeping our viewers accident-free, which is why we initiated the Drive Safe campaign. Steer clear of danger with our monthly tips.
