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AAA: 1 In 5 Accidents Involve Drowsy Driving

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- AAA says drowsy driving contributes to one in five fatal crashes and even missing a little sleep can put you at risk of nodding off.

The report shows drivers who miss between one and two hours of the recommended 7 hours of sleep at night, nearly double their risk for a crash.

Triple A's Jake Nelson says nearly one in three Americans admit to driving when they had a hard time keeping their eyes open.

"If we've earned only four to five hours of sleep in a night are the same as driving legally drunk due to alcohol," Nelson said.

AAA says taking naps can help reduce your risk of becoming drowsy behind the wheel.

If you're on a long trip, they suggest stopping every two hours to take a break.

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