Health
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Drowsy Driving: Erie Insurance Warns of Rising Danger
## Drowsy Driving: A Growing Threat on America's Roads
ERIE, Pa. – A new survey by Erie Insurance reveals a disturbing trend: drowsy driving is on the rise, posing a significant threat to American roadways. The survey, conducted in February 2025, found that 14% of American drivers admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, a statistic that has steadily increased since 2020, according to Erie Insurance data. This alarming figure highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to combat this often-overlooked danger.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least seven hours of sleep per night for adults. However, the Erie Insurance survey paints a concerning picture of sleep deprivation in the U.S. A significant majority (54%) of respondents reported sleeping less than seven hours nightly, with 11% getting four hours or less. The most common reported sleep duration was five to six hours (43%). This lack of sleep directly impacts cognitive function, leading to impaired thinking, reduced alertness, and increased drowsiness, making driving incredibly hazardous.
The survey also pinpointed the most dangerous times for drowsy driving. The highest percentage of respondents (42%) reported feeling most tired between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., with another 23% feeling drowsiest between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. Driving during these hours disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm, exacerbating fatigue and increasing the risk of accidents.
The problem is further complicated by the fact that for many Americans, driving is not just a commute, but a job requirement. A quarter (25%) of survey participants indicated driving as a core job responsibility, spanning various professions from delivery drivers to long-haul truckers. These individuals face unique challenges in maintaining alertness despite irregular sleep schedules.
While some drivers attempt to combat drowsiness with caffeine (63%), turning up the music (62%), or opening windows (58%), Erie Insurance cautions against such methods, particularly cell phone use (32% of women, 23% of men), as these can create distractions. The insurer strongly recommends rest stops instead. The National Sleep Foundation suggests prioritizing better sleep hygiene, including establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding screen time before bed.
The survey identified several contributing factors to sleep deprivation: personal/family stress (52%), anxiety over current events (42%), excessive social media use (24%), and parental responsibilities (14%). Erie Insurance recommends stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and regular exercise to promote better sleep. The company urges Americans to prioritize sleep to mitigate the risks associated with drowsy driving and make roads safer for everyone. The survey involved 1000 nationally representative U.S. residents aged 18 and older with driver's licenses.
ERIE, Pa. – A new survey by Erie Insurance reveals a disturbing trend: drowsy driving is on the rise, posing a significant threat to American roadways. The survey, conducted in February 2025, found that 14% of American drivers admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, a statistic that has steadily increased since 2020, according to Erie Insurance data. This alarming figure highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to combat this often-overlooked danger.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least seven hours of sleep per night for adults. However, the Erie Insurance survey paints a concerning picture of sleep deprivation in the U.S. A significant majority (54%) of respondents reported sleeping less than seven hours nightly, with 11% getting four hours or less. The most common reported sleep duration was five to six hours (43%). This lack of sleep directly impacts cognitive function, leading to impaired thinking, reduced alertness, and increased drowsiness, making driving incredibly hazardous.
The survey also pinpointed the most dangerous times for drowsy driving. The highest percentage of respondents (42%) reported feeling most tired between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., with another 23% feeling drowsiest between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. Driving during these hours disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm, exacerbating fatigue and increasing the risk of accidents.
The problem is further complicated by the fact that for many Americans, driving is not just a commute, but a job requirement. A quarter (25%) of survey participants indicated driving as a core job responsibility, spanning various professions from delivery drivers to long-haul truckers. These individuals face unique challenges in maintaining alertness despite irregular sleep schedules.
While some drivers attempt to combat drowsiness with caffeine (63%), turning up the music (62%), or opening windows (58%), Erie Insurance cautions against such methods, particularly cell phone use (32% of women, 23% of men), as these can create distractions. The insurer strongly recommends rest stops instead. The National Sleep Foundation suggests prioritizing better sleep hygiene, including establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding screen time before bed.
The survey identified several contributing factors to sleep deprivation: personal/family stress (52%), anxiety over current events (42%), excessive social media use (24%), and parental responsibilities (14%). Erie Insurance recommends stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and regular exercise to promote better sleep. The company urges Americans to prioritize sleep to mitigate the risks associated with drowsy driving and make roads safer for everyone. The survey involved 1000 nationally representative U.S. residents aged 18 and older with driver's licenses.
