Working long hours and multiple jobs are a recipe for sleepy driving. Operating a vehicle while drowsy carries the same risks as drunk driving. Besides slower reaction times, lower awareness and an increase in driving errors, sleepy drivers make the roads significantly less safe for other motorists, their passengers and pedestrians.
Car accidents that involve sleepy motorists are preventable. Consider the following tips on avoiding drowsy driving accidents.
Get rest
It is imperative for you to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Due to many factors, your schedule may not allow you to get enough sleep during the night. If you cannot get the necessary amount of sleep you need at night try to incorporate a nap or two into your daily routine. Even a short nap before getting behind the wheel can help reduce the fatigue you may experience when driving and help you to remain more alert while driving.
Pay attention
Pay attention to your body and learn to recognize the signs of fatigue. Lapses in consciousness, quick naps, excessive yawning, blinking and burning eyes are symptoms of fatigue and can lead to you swerving lanes, driving too slow or fast and collisions. If possible, ask someone to drive or use public transportation, a rideshare service or taxi to transport you when you are too drowsy to drive.
Modify driving schedule
Avoid driving at odd hours and late at night and during the wee early morning hours. If driving during these times is unavoidable and you start to feel sleepy, drink some coffee or an energy drink to help keep you awake. Even after consuming caffeinated beverages, you should still remain vigilant for signs of microsleep and inattentiveness.
Road safety is a big responsibility that requires you to remain fully alert and vigilant about your driving actions.