The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving causes at least 100,000 police-reported crashes and kills more than 1,550 Americans each year. According to the National Sleep Foundation's 2008 poll:

• 32% of all respondents surveyed report that they have driven drowsy at least once per month during the past year.

• Among those who drive, more than one-third (36%) have nodded off or fallen asleep, even just for a brief moment, while driving a vehicle.

• 2% of those who drive have had an accident or near accident due to drowsiness while driving in the past year.

Not surprisingly, those who drive and sleep less than 6 hours on workdays are significantly more likely than those who drive and sleep 8 hours or more on workdays to have had an accident or near accident due to drowsiness while driving in the past year (4% vs. <1%).

If you're feeling tired while driving, the best thing to do is to pull off the road in a safe rest area and take a nap for 15-45 minutes. Caffeinated beverages can help overcome drowsiness for a short period of time. However, it takes about 30 minutes before the effects are felt. The best prevention for drowsy driving is a good night's sleep the night before your trip.

Hopefully you were able to take advantage of the extra hour of sleep and are able to get a good night sleep. After all, a good night sleep can keep you awake on the roads.