Driving while feeling tired or fatigued is something most of us have done at one time or another, but it can be deadly.
“Drowsy driving” as it’s often referred to, is operating a vehicle when you’re too tired to remain alert. It contributes to thousands of fatal car crashes every year.
Most drivers are tired while behind the wheel at one time or another, but it’s when you lose your ability to focus and stay alert that can lead to dangerous results.
Causes of Drowsy Driving
There are many reasons drivers get tired or fatigued behind the wheel, but here are some of the common ones:
- Long shifts at work.
- Medications that cause sleepiness.
- Long distance road trips.
- Sleep disorders.
- Late night driving.
- Driving after a night of poor sleep.
Warning Signs
You may not realize just how tired you are until it’s too late. The key to preventing an accident due to drowsy driving is to know the warning signs. These signs can tell you when it’s time to pull over:
- Drifting out of your lane.
- Struggling to keep your eyes open or blinking frequently.
- Not remembering the last few minutes of driving.
- Yawning.
- Inability to focus on the road.
If you have any of these warning signs while behind the wheel, pull over as soon as safely possible and get some rest. If you’re not able to stop driving right away, find ways to keep yourself alert such as rolling down the windows, turning up the A/C, or listening to music.
How to Prevent Drowsy Driving
Taking steps to prevent an accident due to drowsy driving can save lives. Here are suggestions to help keep you alert behind the wheel:
- Never drive while taking medications that can cause drowsiness.
- Never drive after drinking.
- Avoid driving late at night. Take a cab if you are out late.
- Roll down the windows and turn on music, if you are feeling tired but are unable to pull over.
- On long road trips, share the driving with another passenger and utilize rest stops.
- Get enough sleep.
It’s not always easy to avoid driving while tired, but your life, or someone else’s, may depend on it. Awareness is the key. If you know you’re tired and need to get someplace, call an Uber or take the bus and get to your destination alive and safe.