Poor Sleep Linked to More Car Accidents in Teenagers

Poor sleep habits are associated with a higher risk of car accidents among teenagers, according to a study in the Feb. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.  In this study, researchers from the University of Bologna in Italy surveyed Italian high school students with a driver's license regarding sleep quality, driving habits, and self-reported car crashes.

The research showed that 19% of students reported poor sleep, 64% reported daytime sleepiness, and 40% reported sleepiness while driving.  24% of students reported at least one car crash (76% of those were male). 

"Our results confirm the high prevalence of sleep-related complaints among adolescents and highlight their independent role on self-reported crash risk," the study concludes. "Bad sleep, sleepiness at the wheel, male sex and some unhealthy lifestyle habits increased the risk for car crashes among young drivers."

The more commonly utilized counter-fatigue methods of opening the window, listening to the radio, or drinking caffeine, are short-lasting or useless, according to researchers.

To combat drowsiness, the team recommends that drivers to stop driving immediately, pull over to a safe place and nap for 10 to15 minutes.

Other prior studies have had similar findings.  In one study, researchers in Utah found that a disproportionate amount of teenager car crashes were fatal, 19%, and teen drivers wore seatbelts less often than adults, especially when passengers were present.

One recommendation for combatting teen sleep problems and their adverse effects on our roadways is to have later school start times, which has been suggested repeatedly in the United States over the year. Another tip is to not let your child drive before they get their permit and/or to create a parent-teen driving agreement and have your child sign it.

If you need legal assistance with a Greater Houston Area Auto Accident or a Texas Trucking Accident, contact the lawyers of SMSH at info@smslegal.com today.