How many hours of sleep should teens aim for each night to avoid drowsy driving?

Teens should aim for about 8 hours of sleep each night to avoid drowsy driving. This amount of sleep is crucial because adolescents experience significant changes in their bodies and brains during these years, which increases their need for rest. Insufficient sleep can impair cognitive function, reaction time, and decision-making abilities, all of which are vital for safe driving. Moreover, research has shown that getting adequate sleep helps maintain focus and alertness, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by fatigue. Although aiming for 9 hours may be beneficial for some, targeting 8 hours is widely recognized as sufficient to help teens minimize the risks associated with drowsy driving.