Hawaiʻi Police Department
Traffic Services Section
Sergeant Robert P. Pauole
Phone: 961-2305
Media Release
The week of November 10-16 is recognized as the National Drowsy Driving Prevention Week by the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Hawaiʻi Police Department reminds motorist to be adequately rested before traveling on our roadways.
Loss of sleep can disrupt an individual’s biological clock and impair performance. NHTSA data shows that fatigue degrades a driver’s reaction time, memory, communication, situational awareness, judgment, attention and mood by 20-50 percent. Drowsy drivers suffer from irritability, attention lapses and micro naps. Operating a vehicle while drowsy delays your reaction to stopping and can have serious consequences.
In 2013, Drowsy Driving accounted for 72,000 crashes, 800 fatalities and 44,000 injuries in the United States. A national poll indicated that 60 percent of drivers reported driving while drowsy and 37 percent reported nodding off while driving. NHTSA estimates that each year drowsy driving crashes result in 1,550 deaths, 71,000 injuries and $12.5 billion in monetary loses. Drowsy Driving is very under reported, but can be prevented by taking measures to get enough sleep. A few suggestions from the National Sleep Foundation are:
- Get a good night’s sleep before a long drive (7-9 hours for adults and 8.5-9.5 hours for teens).
- If you notice any warning signs of fatigue, find a safe place to get off the road and take a 15-20 minute nap.
- Schedule proper breaks about every 100 miles.
- Drive with a friend who will stay awake and watch for signs of fatigue.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Always wear your seat belt.
The Hawaiʻi Police Department wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday season.
