Summary
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol has long been established as a public safety hazard. But what about hitting the road while fatigued? An estimated average of 83,000 accidents involving drowsy driving occurred annually between 2005 and 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and some estimates are even higher. These accidents cost lives, cause injuries, and damage property. This Forum event explored the risks, impacts and prevention of drowsy driving. Speakers included Arianna Huffington, author of the new book The Sleep Revolution; Mark Rosekind, Head of NHTSA; Charles Czeisler, renowned sleep medicine expert; and Jay Winsten, leader of a large-scale media initiative to draw attention to the perils of distracted driving.
Learn more about the #TakeABreakToStayAwake campaign.
Part of: Policy Controversies.
Presented in Collaboration with The Huffington Post
Background Articles
- #TakeABreakToStayAwake
Pledge campaign started by Arianna Huffington - Social Media Tool Kit
#TakeABreakToStayAwake - Drowsy Driving Research
National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) - Wake Up and Get Some Sleep
NHTSA - Division of Sleep Medicine and Circadian Disorders
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Image Credit: ©iStockphoto.com/guli studio
