Stay Awake: Safe Travel Depends On It

Falling asleep while driving is a major safety hazard. In 2017, the National High Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that roughly 91,000 vehicle accidents – and nearly 800 fatalities – were attributed to crashes involving drowsy driving. Even if the driver has not consumed alcohol, studies have shown that the effects of driving while sleep-deprived are similar to those of drunk driving. These effects include impaired attention and coordination, slower reaction time, and poor judgment. It is therefore important to remain vigilant and alert when driving, and to pull over and rest if you feel yourself becoming sleepy.

The dangers of falling asleep while driving

Falling asleep while driving is extremely dangerous and can have fatal consequences. In 2017, the National High Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that roughly 91,000 vehicle accidents and nearly 800 fatalities were caused by drowsy driving in the US alone. Even if you don't fall asleep, driving while sleepy can lower your focus, reaction times, and decision-making skills, all of which can lead to accidents.

Warning signs of drowsy driving

It's important to be aware of the warning signs of drowsy driving, which include:

• Frequent yawning or blinking
• Feelings of "nodding off"
• Difficulty keeping your head upright
• Trouble remembering the last few miles you've driven
• Missing an exit or road sign
• Following other cars too closely
• Drifting into the other lane or hitting rumble strips

What to do if you feel drowsy while driving

If you experience any of these warning signs, it is crucial that you stop driving immediately. Pull into the nearest rest stop or a safe, well-lit area where you can park without obstructing the road. A short nap of 15-20 minutes can help you feel refreshed and alert. Caffeine can also provide a temporary energy boost, but it's important to keep in mind that the effects may wear off and the feelings of drowsiness may return.

Preventing drowsy driving

• Get enough sleep: Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night.
• Avoid alcohol and sleep-inducing medications if you plan to drive.
• Time your drives: Avoid driving during times of the day when you are most likely to feel drowsy, such as the late afternoon or between 12 am and 6 am.
• Improve your sleep hygiene: Establish consistent bedtimes, optimize your sleep environment, and avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.

Warning signs of drowsy driving

Drowsy driving is a major safety hazard that can be just as fatal as drunk driving. It slows down your reaction time, decreases awareness, impairs judgment, and increases your risk of crashing. Here are some warning signs of drowsy driving:

• Frequent yawning or blinking
• "Nodding off" or difficulty keeping your eyes open
• Trouble keeping your head upright
• Wandering or disconnected thoughts
• Difficulty focusing on the road or your surroundings
• Trouble remembering the last few miles you've driven
• Missing an exit or road sign
• Drifting out of your lane, tailgating, or hitting a rumble strip
• Restlessness and irritability

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take them seriously. Pull over to a safe location, preferably well-lit if it's at night, and rest until you feel fully awake. A short nap, caffeine, or a combination of both can help, but they may only provide a temporary energy boost. The best way to prevent drowsy driving is to get enough sleep, maintain good sleep hygiene, and plan your trips to include proper rest breaks.

How to stay awake while driving

Driving while feeling sleepy is a major safety hazard. In 2017, the National High Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that around 91,000 vehicle accidents and 800 fatalities were caused by drowsy driving. The effects of driving while sleep-deprived are similar to drunk driving, including impaired attention and coordination, slower reaction times, and poor judgment.

Before the trip

• Get a full night's sleep before your trip. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of restful sleep.
• If you're driving during the day, take a 20-minute power nap before your journey.
• Eat a healthy meal 30 minutes before you get behind the wheel. Focus on consuming lean protein and whole grains for sustained energy.
• Take energy-boosting vitamins like B-12, iron, ginseng root, and ashwagandha.
• Pack some easy-to-grab snacks for the road.
• Create a playlist of upbeat songs to keep you awake.

During the trip

• Avoid driving between midnight and 6 a.m. and between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., when your circadian rhythm naturally dips.
• Don't rush. Relaxed-but-alert driving is safe driving.
• If you feel drowsy, pull over to a rest area and take a quick nap.
• Get out and walk around at a rest stop to get your blood flowing.
• Roll down the windows to let fresh air into the car.
• Listen to upbeat music and sing along.
• Travel with a friend so you can chat and take turns driving.
• If you feel yourself dozing off, pull over and drink a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage. However, keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution, and you may experience a dip in energy later.

How to prevent drowsy driving

Drowsy driving is a major safety hazard and a leading cause of motor vehicle collisions. It significantly increases the risk of accidents, resulting in injuries and deaths. Here are some tips to help prevent drowsy driving:

• Get Enough Sleep: Ensure you get adequate sleep, preferably seven to nine hours per night for adults. This is especially important if you have a long drive ahead of you.
• Take Power Naps: If you're feeling drowsy while driving, pull over to a safe location and take a brief nap. Set an alarm for 20 minutes to avoid falling into deep sleep, which can result in more drowsiness.
• Avoid Driving During Low Points: Driving between 2-5 AM and 1-3 PM can be risky, as people are more likely to fall asleep during these hours. It's best to avoid driving before 5 AM to beat the morning traffic unless necessary.
• Take Regular Breaks: Driving for extended periods can be exhausting. Take frequent breaks, get out of the car, and go for a short walk to increase oxygen intake and improve concentration.
• Maintain Proper Nutrition and Hydration: Avoid driving on an empty stomach or after eating a large meal, as it can induce drowsiness. Stay hydrated by drinking adequate water, and avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as they can affect your alertness.
• Create Distractions: Listening to music, a podcast, or engaging in conversation with a passenger can help prevent drowsiness by keeping your mind active and alert.
• Avoid Driving After Taking Certain Medications: Some prescription or over-the-counter medications can induce drowsiness or impair your alertness. Consult a doctor if you're unsure about the effects of specific medications.
• Consume Caffeine or Sugar in Emergencies: In an emergency, consume caffeine or sugar for a short-term energy boost. However, be aware that the effects are temporary, and drowsiness may return once they wear off.
• Plan and Take Breaks: When embarking on a long trip, plan your journey to include frequent breaks. Allow extra time for spontaneous stops, as rushing can increase the risk of accidents and hinder your ability to take necessary breaks.
• Bring a Travel Companion: Most drowsy driving incidents occur when people drive alone. Having a passenger can help keep you alert and share driving duties.

What to do if you're sleepy while driving

Driving while sleepy is extremely dangerous, and can be as hazardous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you're feeling sleepy while driving, it's important to take action to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Here are some things you can do if you find yourself getting drowsy behind the wheel:

• Pull over as soon as possible: If you're feeling sleepy, don't wait until you're too tired to drive. Find a safe place to pull over, such as a rest stop or a well-lit parking area, and take a break.
• Take a nap: A short nap of 15-20 minutes can help refresh and energize you. Set an alarm if needed, and make sure you're parked in a safe, quiet place.
• Caffeine: A cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage can give you a temporary energy boost. However, keep in mind that the effects of caffeine may wear off after a while, so it's best to couple it with a brief nap.
• Music: Playing some energetic or familiar music can help stimulate your brain and keep you alert. Sing along or tap your hands to the beat to stay engaged.
• Travel companions: If possible, consider travelling with someone who can take over driving when you're feeling drowsy. This is a common strategy used by long-haul drivers.
• Plan ahead: If you know you're going to be driving, especially for long distances, get a good night's sleep beforehand. Make sure you're well-rested before getting behind the wheel.

It's important to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If you're feeling sleepy while driving, don't hesitate to pull over and take a break. It's better to arrive late than not at all.

Frequently asked questions