When you are behind the wheel of a car, being sleepy is dangerous. Sleepiness slows reaction time, decreases awareness, and impairs judgment and can contribute to a collision.

The next time you get behind-the-wheel without being fully rested, consider the following:

• The odds of being involved in a crash or a near-crash are nearly three times higher with a drowsy driver than one who is fully awake.

• Driving drowsy can be as fatal as driving drunk.

• Being sleepy makes you make mistakes. When you're tired your brain can play tricks on you.

• Don't assume that drinking caffeine will wake you up. Caffeine can give you a quick jolt of energy but it's not a substitute for sleep and shouldn't be treated as such.

• Driving drowsy is a citable offense.

Sleep-related crashes are common among teen drivers; especially those who tend to stay up late, sleep too little, and drive at night - a dangerous combination. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the State of New York found that young drivers are more than four times more likely to have sleep-related crashes than are drivers over age 30.

• Get a good night's sleep. The amount needed varies from individual to individual, but sleep experts recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.

• Drive long trips with a companion. Passengers can help look for early warning signs of fatigue, and switching drivers may be helpful. Passengers should stay awake and monitor the driver's condition.

• On long trips, take regular breaks. Schedule regular stops, such as every 100 miles, or more often if you feel like you need it.

• Avoid alcohol and medications. If medications warn that they cause or may cause drowsiness, avoid taking them before driving. If you must take prescription medications that cause drowsiness, avoid driving after taking them.