Staying Awake While Driving

Getting drowsy while driving may seem like a natural part of life for many of us, but can be dangerous to you and other drivers on the road.

Herewith are a few tips to fight off sleepiness and stay alert while driving.

Drive Buddy

Power naps can be extremely helpful and that is where a drive buddy comes in handy. By having a buddy, especially on a long road trip, you can alternate the driving between you.

Naps

There is nothing better than getting a good rest, even if it is just for a few hours. If you are going to drive the whole day, make sure to get a good night’s rest so that you are refreshed and alert before you get onto the road.

Taking a nap for at least 15 to 30 minutes before you have to drive can get you the slow-wave sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep you need to feel refreshed and alert.

Music

Some of your favourite music can help you focus and stay alert on the road. Listening to your favourite songs that you can sing along to will stimulate the brain, energetic and vibey music will get you pumped and awake.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a popular and legal stimulant that can get you through the day when you are drowsy, so why not try it while driving. Studies have found that just one cup of coffee can help reduce the effects of sleep deprivation and that caffeine can even lower your risk of crashing on long drives.

When to Stop Driving

Sometimes, you are just too tired to drive, here are a few tell-tale signs that you should stop driving immediately.

When you start yawning uncontrollably and frequently or don’t remember driving for a few kilometres.

Your mind starts wandering and not focusing on what is happening around you.

You have heavy eyelids and your head starts to tilt or fall to one side.

If you suddenly realise that you have drifted into another lane and other drivers are hooting at you because of your erratic driving.

Protection

Protect yourself and other road users by doing the following when you start to feel drowsy or get tired.

Pull over as soon as possible in an area where you can safely park and won’t be disturbed by people or noise.

Remove the key from the ignition and lock your doors, find a comfortable spot in your car, and go to sleep.

You should sleep for at least 15 to 20 minutes, or sleep until you wake up naturally.

Once awake you should feel refreshed and focused to carry on driving.

Other Transportation

If you find yourself getting drowsy behind the wheel frequently, you may want to consider other ways to get where you need to go.

Look into a lift club with a friend, co-worker, classmate, or someone else who is driving where you need to go.

If it is close enough and safe enough to do so, walk, the fresh air will be good for you.

Ride a bicycle, it is more engaging for your entire body and great exercise, be sure to wear a helmet and use a bike-friendly route.

Take the bus, it might be slower, but you can close your eyes and rest and not worry about falling asleep behind the wheel.

Try to minimise everyday driving by working from home, if your employer allows it.

Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving, try some of these strategies to keep yourself awake and alert when driving.