Everyone is aware of the tremendous danger involved with distracted driving and drunk driving However, but less attention is given to the equally risky practice of driving while fatigued, or drowsy driving.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA), approximately 83,000 crashes are caused by drowsy or fatigued driving in the U.S. every year.

Here are some alarming facts about fatigued driving:

• Drowsy driving is very common: According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, 37 percent of survey respondents reported falling asleep behind the wheel in the past year. A whopping 60 percent of respondents reported driving while feeling sleepy.

• Drowsy driving kills: At least 846 individuals were killed in crashes caused by drowsy driving in 2014. However, that number may be much higher. Since the exact cause of some collisions is unknown, it is impossible to know exactly how many wrecks are caused by drivers who are drowsy or falling asleep.

• Men vs. women: Men are more likely to drive drowsy than women (56 percent vs. 45 percent) – and they are more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel (22 percent vs. 12 percent).

• Occupational hazard: Shift workers – those working outside of a typical 9 to 5 schedule – are more likely to drive fatigued than those with a traditional work schedule (36 percent vs. 25 percent).

Although certain medications can make people drowsy most drowsy driving occurs as a result of people not getting enough sleep. Remember it is doctor recommended for people to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

It is best to avoid driving when tired, but research suggests that drinking caffeine or taking a quick road side nap may help in preventing drowsy driving accident.

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident involving a drowsy driver you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.