Avoiding Driver Fatigue

Drowsy driving can pose significant safety risks on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for about 100,000 crashes each year, resulting in more than 71,000 injuries. While long hours behind the wheel can be grueling, and you may be tempted to push through fatigue, it’s essential to understand the toll sleep deprivation takes on drivers. Here are some tips to help you avoid driver fatigue.


1. Getting Enough Sleep
While this may be the most basic tip, it’s also the most important. Sleep is critical for staying sharp on the road. Any time you get less than the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, your driving performance suffers. Prioritizing adequate rest is key to staying alert.


2. Sustaining a Good Diet
Skipping meals or eating irregularly can increase drowsiness. Consuming heavy meals right before driving can also lead to fatigue, and eating a large meal before bed can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to less restorative rest. Be sure to eat regularly and avoid heavy meals at inopportune times.


3. Taking a Break 
If you start to feel drowsy while driving, stopping and taking a break to recharge is crucial. A short nap (up to 45 minutes) has been shown to restore alertness. While strict schedules may make breaks feel like an inconvenience, prioritizing rest is essential for safety. 


4. Don’t Rely on Alertness Tricks
Tricks like rolling down the window, turning up the radio, and overconsuming caffeine are usually referred to as ways to stay awake when driving fatigued; however, they are typically only short-term fixes. The security these provide to some drivers can also be dangerous as you feel compelled to keep driving, ignoring your impairment. 


Drowsy driving is entirely preventable. By following these tips, you can ensure you’re always at your best behind the wheel. Stay safe out there, drivers!