New AAA study shows that drowsy driving could be as dangerous as drunk driving

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A new study by AAA shows that drowsy driving could be as dangerous as drunk driving.

Experts say you should get at least 7 hours of sleep before getting behind the wheel.

According to AAA most drivers say they view drowsy driving as totally unacceptable, yet most drivers admit to doing it.

New research now shows that the decision to get behind the wheel after less than 7 hours of sleep could be deadly.

AAA reports that drowsy driving is involved in more than one in five fatal crashes in the U.S. each year. A study determined that drivers who get only 5 or 6 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period nearly double their risk of getting into a crash. Drivers with only 4 to 5 hours of sleep quadruple their risk. We're told that's the same crash risk reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for driving over the legal limit for alcohol. A AAA Oklahoma spokesperson tells us drivers need to prioritize sleep and most of all listen to your body.

“So those little clues that come along you know the head kind of bobbing up and down, eyelids getting a little bit droopy. If you feel like you're about to fall asleep at the wheel, guess what, you are. That's when you need to pull over and even a cat nap can do wonders to rejuvenate you,” AAA of Oklahoma Spokesperson Chuck Mai said.

You should try to drive during times when you'd normally be awake, if you're heading on a long trip, schedule a break every one or two hours

AAA also recommends that drivers avoid heavy foods or medications that could make you drowsy.

They say it's especially important people take drowsy driving seriously this time of year, as the roads are expected to be very busy this holiday season.