How to Overcome Driving Fatigue

We all do it from time to time take long trips. When traveling for a long time it is only natural to feel tired, even sleepy. There are some steps you can take before heading out and while driving, to help you feel less tired and reduce the chance of being involved in a road traffic accident. 

Driving when tired is responsible for more than 1,500 deaths a year and 40,000 personal injuries.

Precautionary Steps

Firstly, ensure that the night before any long journey you eat well and get plenty of fluids, vitamins and minerals including iron. Your body will store these and use them when needed. Take regular breaks from the computer and rest up sleep is very important get a full night of shut eye.

Secondly, try not to drink too much alcohol as alcohol can cause tiredness. One too many drinks the night before may mean a headache in the morning.

Thirdly, consider that what is good for one person may not be good for another. Avoid driving over night and during the early hours of the morning if you would normally be sleeping at this time. The glare of lights on the dashboard and on the exterior of your car can make you feel sleepy states the Indiana Department of Transportation.

While Driving

During your journey to ensure you are as alert as possible take regular breaks every few hours breaking up the journey is essential.

When taking breaks you can increase short term alertness with caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and Coca Cola. Eat small meals or snacks high in energy rather than large meals as eating large meals can have a negative impact on your energy levels which can lead to tiredness. If you need to eat a large meal, then take a longer break to ensure full recovery.

While driving set targets for breaks every two to three hours to liven yourself up. Stretching and taking a five-minute walk will increase the circulation; the fresh air will help relieve that tired feeling. Open your windows or turn on the air conditioning as warmth and comfort go hand in hand and can make you feel drowsy.

Be extra vigilant when you’re driving on long, straight roads such as highways and motorways as you are more likely to fall asleep because the road requires less reactions and can turn monotonous. Leave plenty of room between your car and ones in front of you.