A report by the Australian Centre on Quality of Life at Deakin University found that more than 31 percent of Australians sleep six hours or less a night, yet less than 3 percent of the population is hard wired to sleep so few hours. Insufficient sleep has significant consequences on health and well-being including serious injury and even death.
Inadequate sleep is a major health and safety hazard that contributes to the deaths of approximately 3000 Australians a year. A recent study by Deloitte Access Economics estimates more than one Australian will die every day, or 394 a year, from falling asleep at the wheel of a vehicle, or from industrial accidents, due to lack of sleep. As well as the negative impact of inadequate sleep on health and wellbeing, the report also calculates that the financial cost to Australia is $66 billion.
Sleep Disorders Australia has launched campaigns in Queensland and Tasmania to educate people about the dangers of driving when tired. We hope to extend our campaign nationally.
Signs of Drowsiness:
Tips for Staying Safe on the Road:
If you are feeling sleepy, stop driving immediately. The only cure for sleepiness is sleep.