It’s no surprise that there are many factors that affect the safety of a trip in an automobile, but we tend to hear a lot about weather conditions, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A recent study serves as a reminder that if you want to avoid an auto insurance claim, make sure you’re getting enough sleep.
Common sense tells us that serious sleep deprivation can have negative consequences, and there have been studies in the past that show that severe lack of sleep is as bad as driving under the influence, but this recently released study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that the problem is serious even if you are just a little bit tired.
After studying crash data of over 4,500 incidents over the course of two years, researchers made some conclusions about sleep.
They were not surprised to find out that drivers who slept less than four hours were eleven times more likely to have an accident, but what was surprising was the fact that drivers who slept 6 hours each night were twice as likely to have a crash.
The CDC recommends 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night, but few people get that amount in our busy society. While it might not seem like that big of a deal to stay up an extra hour at night to watch a movie, or spend some time with friends, the fact is, the consequences can be quite catastrophic.
Sleep is important.
Not only is it essential to overall health, but it affects your ability to focus, concentrate, and react. According to this study, just missing an hour of sleep can double your chances of an automobile accident, so make it a priority to get at least 7 hours each night. Check out our recent article on how Auto Insurance Claims Can Go Beyond Vehicle Damage.
Finally
If you want to discuss options for auto insurance, please call us at 561-732-9305. Our quoting hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. In addition, you can request a quote online. Please remember, We Handle All the Work, While You Save!
Robert Macoviak is the President of Oyer, Macoviak and Associates. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates is the oldest independent insurance agency in Boynton Beach and has been in business since 1953. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates are vested members of the community who are committed to doing business face-to-face and being your insurance advocate in times of need.
