10 Tips to Prevent Drowsy Driving

Sleep. It’s something we all need and something of which we don’t get enough. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 Americans aged 18-60 get less than 7 hours of sleep a night. Lack of good night’s sleep, schedule changes (such as changing the clocks), and certain medications can all lead to drowsy driving.

In 2017, NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) released that drowsy driving was responsible for 91,000 motor vehicle accidents resulting in 50,000 injuries and 800 deaths. In addition, a report from AAA has said more than 40% of drivers have admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel.

What is Drowsy Driving?

What is Drowsy Driving, and why is it so dangerous? The CDC defines drowsy driving as the dangerous combination of driving, sleepiness, and fatigue since it’s hard to know precisely when sleep overtakes your body—driving while tired can also affect you in other ways before falling asleep. It shares similar symptoms to driving under the influence, such as blurred vision, poor decision-making skills, inability to accurately tell the depth or distance between vehicles, and slow reaction time.

Unlike drinking and driving, where you can consciously decide not to partake in dangerous activities, almost anyone is susceptible to drowsy driving. Even the most experienced drivers can nod off or miss the signs.

What are the Signs?

Some of the signs of drowsy driving are:

• Yawning or blinking excessively
• Missing your exit or missing signs
• Drifting in your lane
• Hitting the rumble strip or shoulder
• Feeling your eyes close or unable to keep them open
• Unable to remember the last few miles
• Unintentionally end up closer to the vehicle in front of you

If you notice you are suffering from any of the symptoms above, you should:

• Pull over in a safe area and try to sleep
• Pull over and, if possible, switch with someone in the car who can continue to drive

Tips to Prevent

Now that you know the signs and what to do if you find yourself driving while tired, here are some tips you can take to prevent driving while sleepy.

1. Be sure to get enough sleep the night before. Make it a priority to get 7-9 hrs of sleep.
2. Review your medications and be aware if any cause drowsiness or sleepiness.
3. Try to plan your drives during the hours you’re already naturally awake (avoid early morning or late night trips).
4. Drink caffeine while driving if you feel a little tired.
5. Try eating a 100-200 calorie snack to wake you up.
6. Avoid carb-heavy meals before driving long distances, and instead opt for a lighter, low-sugar, healthy option.
7. Plan your drive so you and a friend can switch off when you get tired.
8. Try taking energy-boosting vitamins before you drive.
9. Listen to engaging radio shows, books on tape, music, or anything that keeps you awake.
10. Take a break. If none of the above works, try a 20-minute nap. It should be able to get you the rest of the way.