When driving on the roads, it is now more important than ever for one to stay awake. Unfortunately, there have been far too many instances of car accidents that have happened in the United States due to people not being awake on the road.
According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), drowsy driving leads to approximately 100,000 crashes, 50,000 injuries, and about 800 fatalities each year in the United States alone.
Understanding the Dangers of Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is a pervasive issue that significantly impacts road safety. Operating a vehicle while fatigued can have similar cognitive and physical impairments to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
According to Bonilla Law Firm, “Impaired driving can lead to serious car accidents, resulting in injuries, and in some cases, death for those involved”.
And therefore, drowsy driving has a similar effect to driving under the influence.
What Happens When You Have A Lack Of Sleep While Driving
As drowsy driving can be similar in many ways to impaired driving, staying awake on the roads is now more important than ever, even with many families traveling this summer.
But what are the true effects of having a lack of sleep when on the road?
Cognitive Impairment: Lack of sleep or prolonged wakefulness can result in impaired cognitive function, which reduces your ability to concentrate, make quick decisions, and respond effectively to unexpected situations diminishes, increasing the risk of accidents.
Delayed Reaction Time: Fatigue slows down your reaction time to changing road conditions, traffic signals, and the actions of other drivers.
Reduced Peripheral Vision: Drowsiness can lead to a narrowing of your field of vision, reducing your ability to notice peripheral hazards. This tunnel vision effect limits your awareness of potential dangers around you.
Microsleep Episodes: Having a lack of sleep can trigger microsleep episodes, during which you briefly fall asleep for a few seconds without realizing it. These microsleeps can occur even with your eyes open, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
Increased Single-Vehicle Accidents: Drowsy driving is a leading cause of single-vehicle accidents. These accidents often occur during late-night or early-morning hours, and they tend to be more severe due to the lack of corrective actions taken by drowsy drivers.
Practical Tips for Staying Awake and Alert
Prioritize Adequate Sleep: The foundation of staying awake on the road begins with proper sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep before embarking on your journey.
Avoid Peak Drowsy Times: Be mindful of the times when your body is naturally inclined to feel tired, such as late at night and around mid-afternoon. Whenever possible, plan your travels to avoid these hours.
Take Regular Breaks: On longer drives, schedule frequent breaks to stretch your legs, move around, and invigorate your mind. A short break can work wonders in keeping you alert.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Dehydration can contribute to fatigue, so drink water throughout your journey. Opt for light and nutritious snacks to maintain your energy levels.
Focus On Mindful Meal Choices: Avoid heavy and greasy meals, such as a burger and fries, before driving, as they can induce drowsiness. Opt for balanced meals that provide sustained energy.
Listen To Engaging Entertainment: Listen to engaging content, such as lively music, engaging podcasts, or audiobooks, to stimulate your mind and prevent monotony.
Take Power Naps: If you’re feeling drowsy, pull over in a safe location and take a short power nap of 15-20 minutes. Napping for a short time can effectively refresh your cognitive abilities.
Stay Involved and Engaged: Keep your mind actively engaged by observing your surroundings, predicting traffic movements, and maintaining situational awareness.
Keeping Safety As A Priority On The Road
When you’re on the road, safety should always be your top priority.
Staying awake and alert while driving is not only a personal responsibility but a duty to your passengers and fellow road users. Remember, a well-rested driver is a vigilant driver, who can also contribute to safer roads for everyone.
