While much press is given to the dangers of drunk driving, and rightfully so, a new study finds that another, less publicized type of driver poses nearly as much risk to others on Florida roads: drowsy drivers.

The 2010 study released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that drowsy drivers are responsible for one in six traffic fatalities and one in eight traffic accidents that result in serious injuries. And, men are most likely to be involved in an accident involving a tired driver, accounting for two in three accidents involving drowsy drivers.

As reported by an NBC affiliate, a follow up study found that 32 percent of drivers admitted to driving when they struggled to keep their eyes open; with two in ten drivers admitting to falling asleep while behind the wheel (one in ten said they had done so in the past year).

Drivers that experience any of the signs of fatigued driving (tired eyes, trouble keeping head up, swerving or drifting from lane, yawning, or inattention while driving) should pull over and take a break. The AAA Foundation offers the following safety tips for preventing fatigue-related accidents:

  • Take breaks every few hours or every 100 miles
  • Get plenty of sleep before long trips
  • Drive during the hours you are normally awake
  • Drink caffeinated beverages
  • Have a passenger remain awake with you

In a written statement Peter Kissinger, president and CEO of AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, stated: "Drivers have a tendency to underestimate the impact being tired has on their driving ability, which puts themselves and others at risk."

The statistics released by the AAA Foundation should give all drivers pause, especially when drivers find themselves slouched and tired behind the wheel.

Source: Drowsy driving common, survey shows: Guess who does it most