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Drowsy Driving isn’t Drunk Driving — So What’s the Big Deal?

 Driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving drunk

Drowsy driving may seem like it’s something that isn’t that harmless. After all, there aren’t legal ramifications for driving while sleepy like there are for those who are caught drunk driving. What’s more, you may feel like you are able to beat the system, so to speak, by adjusting the temperature in your car or by drinking caffeinated beverages.


The statistics, however, speak otherwise. A study published in the journal “Archives of Internal Medicine” indicates that a person who is driving drowsy is just as likely as a person driving drunk to cause an accident. The study also found that men are more likely to engage in drowsy driving, and that those who are ages 18-29 are also more likely to get behind the wheel while sleepy.


Factors that can contribute to drowsy driving in North Carolina include:


  • Your circadian rhythm. This is controlled by your internal clock, which lets your body know when you should be awake and asleep. If you’re used to being asleep at a certain time and are behind the wheel, this may impact your driving ability.
  • How much time you’ve already spent awake. The amount of sleep you need is directly related to the amount of time you’ve been awake. The longer you’ve kept your eyes open, the longer you need to keep them shut. If you deprive your body of the sleep it needs, it goes into a “sleep debt” mode, which may make it more difficult to concentrate and focus. You will likely have a delayed reaction, which is also common in those who drive drunk.

  • Driving While Alert: Staying Safe Behind the Wheel with

    My CPAP Club


    Another factor that can contribute to your drowsy driving is an undiagnosed sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a medical condition that refers to difficulty breathing while asleep. Sleep apnea can be diagnosed by a physician, who may gather information about your sleeping habits or patterns from a family member.


    If they determine that you have sleep apnea, one of the best means you can use to get a good night’s sleep (and end drowsy driving) is through My CPAP Club. My CPAP Club is based in North Carolina, and can ship CPAP machines, water chambers and masks across the country. These devices will help you maintain healthy breathing patterns while you are asleep, leaving you feeling well-rested in the morning.


    Don’t become a driving statistic. Turn to My CPAP Club for all of your CPAP machine needs. To get started, contact us online or call us at 1-888-272-7050 today.