As we explore the factors that put young and inexperienced drivers at risk for crashes, here is another that we cannot overlook.
Less sleep associated with increased risk of crashes for young driversSource National Sleep Foundation, May 29, 2013
A study by Australian researchers suggests less sleep per night is associated with a significant increase in the risk for motor vehicle crashes for young drivers. On average, individuals who reported sleeping 6 or fewer hours per night had an increased risk for crash compared with those who reported sleeping more than 6 hours. Less weekend sleep was significantly associated with an increased risk for run-off-road crashes. Crashes for individuals who had less sleep per night (on average and on weekends) were significantly more likely to occur between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. "This provides rationale for governments and healthcare providers to address sleep-related crashes among young drivers," the study concludes. To see the full article, go to: www.sleepfoundation.org/
Colorado's young driver safety news and information site.
