This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

As part of "Drowsy Driving Awareness Week," Ogden Clinic neurologist Chris Hammond and volunteers showed news media Tuesday how lack of sleep affects brain wave activity and makes it dangerous to drive.

Drowsy driving is one of the top five reasons behind deaths on Utah roads.

Since 2006, Utah has averaged 1,100 crashes and more than 20 deaths each year from drowsy driving. So far this year, Utah has had 636 drowsy driving related crashes, including three fatalities.

More information is available at sleepsmartdrivesmart.com.

State officials say that among warning signs of sleepiness while driving are: trouble focusing; drifting from your lane; feeling restless, irritable or aggressive; daydreaming and wandering thoughts; yawning or rubbing eyes repeatedly.