What type of driver is least at-risk for drowsy driving?
Select one:
a. A young driver
b. A commercial driver
c. A shift worker
d. A driver with a passenger
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is d. A driver with a passenger.
Drivers who travel with a passenger are generally at lower risk for drowsy driving compared to those who drive alone. This is because passengers can help keep the driver alert by engaging in conversation or providing support in recognizing signs of fatigue. Passengers can act as a second set of eyes to monitor the driver’s behavior, and they can encourage breaks if they notice the driver becoming drowsy. In contrast, drivers who are alone may not have this external alert, increasing their risk of fatigue-related incidents.
Drowsy driving occurs when a driver’s ability to focus and react diminishes due to sleep deprivation, long driving hours, or a lack of rest. This affects reaction time, decision-making, and attention span. Young drivers, shift workers, and commercial drivers are typically at higher risk for drowsy driving due to irregular sleep patterns, long hours, and the pressures of work schedules.
Young drivers are often more likely to drive at night or during times when they would naturally be sleeping, making them more vulnerable to fatigue. Shift workers, particularly those working overnight shifts or rotating schedules, have disrupted circadian rhythms, which can lead to fatigue during driving. Commercial drivers face long hours on the road, sometimes in isolated conditions, which contributes to fatigue.
Having a passenger in the vehicle provides an added layer of safety by offering a source of interaction and accountability, making it easier to spot signs of drowsiness before they lead to an accident. Therefore, drivers with passengers are statistically less likely to engage in drowsy driving compared to those driving alone.