Perceived Threat of Driving While Drowsy

Perceived Threat of Other Drivers Driving While Sleepy or Drowsy
Virtually all drivers believe that other drivers who drive while sleepy or drowsy are a threat to their own personal safety and that of their family. Ninety-five percent (95%) believe this behavior by others to be a major threat, while 5% see it as a minor threat. [Figure 18-A]

By Gender

There is little substantive difference in the perception of the threat of other drivers who drive while drowsy or sleepy between male and female drivers. Male drivers are slightly more likely to view this behavior as a minor (6%), rather than a major (93%) threat to their and their family's safety as compared to female drivers (3% and 96% respectively). However, all drivers see the behavior as a personal threat to their safety. [Figure 18-B]

By Age

There is also little difference in the perceived threat of others' driving while drowsy or sleepy by age, with the exception that drivers in their 20s are more likely to see this behavior as a minor (8%) rather than a major threat (91%) to their and their family's safety. [Figure 18-C]