Driving while tired is never a good idea. In fact, research shows that drivers are three times more likely to be involved in an accident if they are tired. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drowsy driving leads to approximately 90,000 crashes each year in the United States. these accidents caused countless injuries and deaths.

In order to arrive at your destination safely, it is crucial to avoid driving while drowsy. The first step is to recognize the signs of fatigue and know how to prevent risks. In this article, we’ll discuss the warning signs of drowsy driving and share helpful tips for staying alert on the road.

Recognize the signs of drowsy driving

No matter how careful you are, it’s important to stay alert for signs of drowsy driving. According to the National Sleep Foundation, if you experience any of the following signs, it is essential to stop and rest before continuing:

• Wandering thoughts
• Frequent yawning
• Irritability or restlessness
• Heavy eyelids or frequent blinking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Missing exits or signs
• I don’t remember the last few miles of driving
• Tailgating or drifting over the shoulder
• Difficulty keeping your head up

The dangers of drowsy driving

Driving while tired affects your ability to stay focused and react quickly. The National Sleep Foundation highlights several dangers associated with drowsy driving:

• Impaired vision
• Slower reaction times
• Decreased coordination
• Reduced awareness of traffic lights, signs and other vehicles
• “Microsleeps” – brief episodes of unconsciousness that last only a few seconds but can be fatal

These deficiencies make it more difficult to control your vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of an accident.

Tips for staying alert and avoiding drowsy driving

Everyone is at risk of becoming drowsy behind the wheel, but there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of this happening. Below are tips to help you avoid drowsy driving and stay safe on the road:

• Get enough sleep: The best way to prevent drowsy driving is to sleep at least seven hours a night.
• Teach Teenagers the Importance of Sleep: Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to drowsy driving because they often don’t get enough rest. Make sure they understand the risks of driving while tired.
• Prepare for long trips: If you’re planning a long drive, make sure you’re well rested before hitting the road. This also applies to family trips: your loved ones depend on your ability to stay alert.
• Pay attention to medications: If you are taking medications that may cause drowsiness, consider asking someone else to drive or take public transportation instead.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol and drowsiness impair your reaction time and judgment. Don’t drink before driving.
• Avoid driving during periods of peak sleepiness: If you drive late at night or early in the morning, be very careful. If you feel tired, stop and rest.

Conclusion

If you experience any of these symptoms of drowsy driving while driving in Michigan, you should stop in a safe, well-lit area and rest.

If you’re feeling sleepy but can’t stop right away, a cup of coffee or a caffeinated beverage can help wake you up. Make sure to wait about 30 minutes for the caffeine to take effect. If you’re still tired after this, it’s time to find a safe place to sleep.

Remember, fighting fatigue isn’t worth the risk. Take a break when you need to and prioritize the safety of yourself and others on the road.