Feb 24, 2014
Americans are getting busier and busier, and their sleep is taking a hard hit. As we try to do more in less time, our sleep cycles get disrupted, and our minds and bodies get pushed to extreme limits. If you are taking on more and sleeping less, you might be putting yourself and others in danger. Hatfield Toyota wonders if you are at risk for drowsy driving.
Drowsy Driving Risk Factors
You may be at risk for drowsy driving without even knowing. Your schedule and your employment may put you at an increased risk.
- Commercial truck drivers
- Workers who work long shifts, graveyard shifts and swing shifts
- People who have sleeping problems or sleep disorders
- Drivers who are certain medications
- People who do not get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep
- Drivers who have been using alcohol
How to Combat Drowsy Driving
Take steps to combat drowsy driving. If you experience chronic sleep problems, talk to your physician or consult a sleep professional.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule during the week and on the weekends
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and television before you go to bed
- Talk to your physician about medications you are on and how they affect your ability to drive
- Take frequent breaks when you are traveling long distances
- Consume caffeine or chew gum when you are on a road trip
- Listen to music with a lively and up-beat temp when on a road trip
- If you start to feel fatigued, pull over and take a small nap
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