Drowsy driving leads to
thousands of automobile accidents each year. According to the National Safety
Council, a sleepy driver is likely to have reduced awareness, impaired judgment
and poor vision. Being sleepy also slows down your reaction time. Sleepiness
like drugs or alcohol can risk the life of the driver and his passengers when
driving. However, unlike alcohol level
which can be measured through blood or breath test, there are no measurable
tests that can determine the level of sleepiness of an individual.
People who are
considered prone to drowsy driving include shift workers who have irregular
sleeping time due to long and erratic working hours, individuals who drive long
distance every day, people suffering from unrecognized and untreated sleep
disorders such as sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) and narcolepsy, and individuals
who take prescribed medication with sedatives.
It is important to
recognize signs of sleepiness. Symptoms may include the following:
·
Trouble keeping eyes open
·
Inattentiveness or inability to
concentrate on the road
·
Constant rubbing of eyes
·
Difficulty keeping the head up
·
Persistent yawning
·
Wandering thoughts
·
Drifting between lanes or going off the
road
·
Missing road signs or intended exit
·
Failing to follow traffic rules
·
Tailgating
·
Driving in abnormal speed
·
Feeling irritable, impatient and
restless
·
Failing to remember how far you have
driven
·
Inability
to track back areas or landmarks recently passed
Drowsy
driving is a serious risk that should not be taken lightly. Here are some safety tips and reminders that may help
prevent drowsy driving and road accidents.
The best counter measure for drowsy driving is maintaining
regular sleep. Keep in mind that the
body and mind need adequate rest in order to function properly.
When you feel sleepy, it is advisable to get off the
road. Find a safe area where you can
take a nap. Set the alarm to 15
minutes to prevent going in deep sleep.
If you are going on a long trip, make it a point to get at
least six hours of sleep the night before.
If possible, avoid driving between 12 am and 6 am.
Take short break intervals every two hours or every 100
miles. It is recommended that you get
out of the vehicle and walk around to fight sleepiness.
Avoid driving all night.
Consider staying overnight in a bed and breakfast or hotel then resume
driving the following day.
If you have a companion, make sure that you request that
person to stay awake with you. Your companion can help keep you alert and
prevent you from falling asleep on the road.
Take turns driving with your companion.
During long trips, it is recommended that you stop for light
snacks or meals.
Drink caffeinated beverage to help keep you alert on the
road.
Set the car temperature cooler than usual but not too cold.
Avoid listening
to slow and relaxing music in the car. Play fast and upbeat music.
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