Now that spring is here, the open road may be calling for you to take a trip. While road trips are fun, they tend to require a lot of extended driving time, which can lead you to push through even if you feel tired.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that there are approximately 100,000 drowsy driving related accidents each year. Incredibly, that number may be a low-ball estimate due to unreported or undetermined drowsy driving related incidents.
Here are some safety tips to prevent you from being involved in a drowsy driving related collision.
1. Rest Up
Getting a good night’s sleep before your road trip sets you up for a fresh, well-rested start.
Pack ahead and take care of as much as you can the night before. In the morning, spend the extra time to eat a light breakfast and fully wake up.
Driving during daylight hours also helps keep you awake and alert since you’re not struggling to read road signs or deal with visibility issues that come up at night and are more tiring for your eyes.
2. Hydrate
Make sure you bring along plenty of water to keep hydrated which helps keep your alert. Avoid sugary or highly caffeinated beverages to skip the inevitable crash that comes later on. If you must, bring along a coffee traveler but avoid overindulging in the caffeine.
Hydration works well at keeping you alert and will also require you to make more frequent visits to rest stops, which leads us to the next tip.
3. Breaks
In order to stretch, move stiff muscles and use the restroom facilities, taking breaks along the journey gives your mind and body a much-needed break.
Stop to stretch or engage in any other physical movement you need to get your blood flowing and body moving. This will help restore energy for the next leg of your trip.
Breathe in some fresh air to clear your head.
4. Snacks
Packing a good supply of snacks is essential for a road trip.
The best kinds of snacks are those that maintain even blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar dips, your energy will fade fast.
Snacks high in protein, grains, raw veggies, and fresh fruit, especially citrus, are all great choices to maintain sustained energy levels.
Avoid sugary snacks or junk food which cause spikes and dips in blood sugar levels, along with empty calories that won’t help your focus or energy.
5. Tunes
Don’t be shy about belting out your favorite song along the way.
Your favorite upbeat music helps to keep your mind stimulated and focused. Save those slow jams for another time.
Conclusion
Follow these tips to stay awake during long road trips and avoid drowsy driving.
If you are involved in a drowsy driving or other collision, contact the auto body experts at Downtown Autobody. We can repair your vehicle to like-new condition and get you back on the road in no time.
