Sleep and Driving Safety

Abstract

Drowsy driving is a widespread problem that results in accidents and injuries, costing lives and money. Drowsy driving can occur due to inadequate sleep, circadian rhythm influences and sleep disorders. It is agnostic to the driver affecting any age, sex, amount of prior driving experience and can include those who drive cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles. Laws and regulations are spotty on drowsy driving in part due to the challenges in defining it and confirming it.

Keywords: Chronotype, Circadian rhythm, Commercial driver’s license, Commercial driver medical examiner, Drowsy driving, Hours of service, Hypersomnia, Maggie’s Law, Motor vehicle crash, Narcolepsy, Obstructive sleep apnea, Sleep deprivation, Standard deviation of lateral position.