Health
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Drowsy Driving: Erie Insurance Warns of Deadly Rise
Drowsy Driving on the Rise: Erie Insurance Highlights Alarming Statistics
ERIE, Pa. – A new survey commissioned by Erie Insurance reveals a disturbing trend: drowsy driving is on the rise, posing a significant threat to American roadways. The study found that 14% of Americans admit to falling asleep at the wheel, a figure that has steadily increased since 2020, according to Erie Insurance data. This alarming statistic underscores the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.
The survey, conducted by Falls & Co. between February 21st and 24th, 2025, polled 1,000 nationally representative U.S. residents aged 18 and older who hold driver’s licenses. Results indicate that a significant portion of the population is sleep-deprived. Over half (54%) reported sleeping less than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommended seven hours per night, with 11% getting four hours or less. The largest group (43%) averaged five to six hours of sleep.
This lack of sleep has serious consequences. Insufficient rest impairs thinking, alertness, and reaction time – a particularly dangerous combination behind the wheel. The inability to focus and react quickly increases the risk of accidents. The survey identified peak drowsiness periods between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. (42% of respondents) and 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. (23%). This is partially attributed to driving at night disrupting the body’s circadian rhythm.
The problem extends beyond individual drivers. A quarter of respondents (25%) identified driving as a core job responsibility, highlighting the risk for various professions, from delivery drivers to long-haul truckers.
While some drivers attempt to combat drowsiness with caffeine (63%), turning up the music (62%), or opening windows (58%), Erie Insurance stresses that these are temporary fixes and may even increase distractions. The company recommends taking a rest break instead. The National Sleep Foundation suggests prioritizing sleep hygiene, including establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
Contributing factors to sleep deprivation include personal/family stress (52%), anxiety over current events (42%), excessive social media use (24%), and parental duties (14%). The survey notes that Americans spend an average of five hours and sixteen minutes daily on their phones, with blue light from screens interfering with sleep. Erie Insurance recommends minimizing screen time an hour before bed.
Erie Insurance urges drivers to prioritize sleep and adopt healthy habits to combat drowsy driving. By recognizing the risks and taking preventative action, communities can collectively work toward safer roads.
ERIE, Pa. – A new survey commissioned by Erie Insurance reveals a disturbing trend: drowsy driving is on the rise, posing a significant threat to American roadways. The study found that 14% of Americans admit to falling asleep at the wheel, a figure that has steadily increased since 2020, according to Erie Insurance data. This alarming statistic underscores the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.
The survey, conducted by Falls & Co. between February 21st and 24th, 2025, polled 1,000 nationally representative U.S. residents aged 18 and older who hold driver’s licenses. Results indicate that a significant portion of the population is sleep-deprived. Over half (54%) reported sleeping less than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommended seven hours per night, with 11% getting four hours or less. The largest group (43%) averaged five to six hours of sleep.
This lack of sleep has serious consequences. Insufficient rest impairs thinking, alertness, and reaction time – a particularly dangerous combination behind the wheel. The inability to focus and react quickly increases the risk of accidents. The survey identified peak drowsiness periods between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. (42% of respondents) and 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. (23%). This is partially attributed to driving at night disrupting the body’s circadian rhythm.
The problem extends beyond individual drivers. A quarter of respondents (25%) identified driving as a core job responsibility, highlighting the risk for various professions, from delivery drivers to long-haul truckers.
While some drivers attempt to combat drowsiness with caffeine (63%), turning up the music (62%), or opening windows (58%), Erie Insurance stresses that these are temporary fixes and may even increase distractions. The company recommends taking a rest break instead. The National Sleep Foundation suggests prioritizing sleep hygiene, including establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
Contributing factors to sleep deprivation include personal/family stress (52%), anxiety over current events (42%), excessive social media use (24%), and parental duties (14%). The survey notes that Americans spend an average of five hours and sixteen minutes daily on their phones, with blue light from screens interfering with sleep. Erie Insurance recommends minimizing screen time an hour before bed.
Erie Insurance urges drivers to prioritize sleep and adopt healthy habits to combat drowsy driving. By recognizing the risks and taking preventative action, communities can collectively work toward safer roads.
