The Hidden Danger: Drowsy Driving After Daylight Saving Time Change
As we prepare to set our clocks forward for Daylight Saving Time (DST) at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2025, motorists need to be aware of a silent but deadly risk—drowsy driving. The New York State Partnership Against Drowsy Driving (NYPDD) is spearheading a campaign with the message, "Stay Awake! Stay Alive!", reminding drivers to be alert during this transition.
The Alarming Statistics Behind Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), staying awake for 24 hours straight can impair driving as much as having a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.10%—above the legal limit in most states. Here are some concerning statistics:
328,000 crashes annually are linked to drowsy driving nationwide.
More than half of drowsy driving crashes involve drivers aged 25 and younger.
In New York State, there were 3,876 police-reported crashes due to driver fatigue or falling asleep in 2024, resulting in nine fatalities and 1,423 injuries.
Why Daylight Saving Time Increases the Risk
The shift to DST means losing an hour of sleep, which can significantly disrupt sleep cycles and increase driver fatigue. Experts from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), New York State Police, and health officials emphasize the importance of recognizing drowsy driving signs and taking proactive measures.
How to Recognize and Prevent Drowsy Driving
Warning Signs of Drowsy Driving:
Frequent yawning or blinking
Difficulty keeping eyes open
Drifting from lanes or missing exits
Trouble remembering the last few miles driven
Feeling restless or irritable
Preventive Measures:
Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep before driving.
Take breaks every 100 miles or every two hours on long trips.
Avoid alcohol and sedating medications before driving.
Share driving responsibilities with a passenger.
If drowsiness sets in, pull over and rest.
Awareness Campaign: NYPDD's Efforts to Combat Drowsy Driving
Recognizing that young adults are at the highest risk (71% of drivers aged 18-29 admit to driving while drowsy), the NYPDD has launched an education campaign targeting college campuses and high-risk counties.
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"Stay Awake! Stay Alive!" PSA Challenge
To further engage young drivers, the NYPDD and New York Students Against Destructive Decisions (NY SADD) have introduced the "Stay Awake! Stay Alive!" Public Service Announcement (PSA) Challenge. College students across 21 campuses are encouraged to create 25-second videos raising awareness about drowsy driving, with cash prizes up to $2,500.
Additionally, winning PSAs will be showcased in DMV offices, Thruway rest areas, and on social media.
Statewide Initiatives to Keep Motorists Safe
To reinforce this crucial safety message, New York State agencies are taking extra steps:
The Department of Health (DOH) is running social media campaigns focusing on college students and commercial vehicle drivers.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and Thruway Authority will display "STAY AWAKE, STAY ALIVE" on highway message boards from March 7–10.
State Police and DMV officials continue to educate drivers on drowsy driving dangers.
The Fourth "D" in Dangerous Driving: Drowsy Driving
Lisa M. Endee, Clinical Associate Professor at Stony Brook University, urges motorists to recognize Drowsy Driving as the fourth "D" in dangerous driving, alongside drunk, drugged, and distracted driving.
How Employers and Organizations Can Help
Employers, especially those in industries that require long driving hours, should implement policies that encourage rest breaks and limit consecutive hours behind the wheel. Companies should also educate employees on the dangers of sleep deprivation and drowsy driving, particularly for commercial vehicle drivers, shift workers, and medical personnel.
Community organizations and schools can also play a crucial role by spreading awareness about the risks of drowsy driving through seminars, workshops, and educational programs.
Myths About Staying Awake While Driving
Many drivers believe that certain strategies can help them stay awake while driving, but these are often ineffective and misleading. Here are some common myths and the reality behind them:
Myth: Drinking coffee or energy drinks will keep you awake for long drives.
Reality: Caffeine may provide a temporary boost but does not replace the need for sleep. Once its effects wear off, drowsiness returns.
Myth: Rolling down the windows or blasting music will prevent drowsiness.
Reality: While fresh air and loud music might make you feel more alert momentarily, they do not address the root cause—sleep deprivation.
Myth: Driving faster will help you stay more focused.
Reality: Speeding only increases the risk of a crash and does not counteract fatigue.
Final Thoughts: Drive Alert, Stay Safe
Drowsy driving is preventable. By ensuring proper sleep, taking breaks, and making responsible choices, motorists can reduce crashes and save lives.
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Stay awake, stay alive!
