Drowsiness is one condition many people do not realize leads to car accidents and death on the roads of Atlanta. Most motorists are aware of when they are tired and not feeling their best to drive. However, their fatigue does not deter them from driving. If you are in the habit of driving while tired, you may think it is a normal aspect of driving. It is not, but it can cause you to drive in the same reckless manner as a drunk motorist.
As dangerous as the habit is, many people who do it do not realize there are things they can do to prevent driving while fatigued. Take some time to learn how to recognize the signs of drowsy driving and the actions you can take to sidestep it and the car accidents that often accompany drowsy driving.
Signs you are too tired to drive
If you are not getting enough sleep at night, you should avoid driving a vehicle. Even if you initially feel fine, your lack of sleep could catch up to you. If driving is unavoidable, pay attention to your body as you operate your vehicle for the following signs of driver fatigue:
- Swerving and drifting in and out of lanes
- Frequent yawning
- Missing exits, traffic signals and signs
- Wandering thoughts
- Trouble keeping eyes open
- Difficulty remembering important details about your commute
Keep in mind that the above symptoms are the warning signs that indicate you are feeling sleepy and your attention is not sufficient to drive. If you ignore these signs to the point of falling asleep behind the wheel, you could find yourself crashing into other motorists, on your way to the hospital for medical treatment or dead. You also put other motorists in danger of the same fate.
Ways to avoid drowsy driving
Drowsy driving does not have to occur. To make your commute a safer one, take heed of the following actions you should take:
- Avoid traveling long distances without taking breaks.
- Avoid large meals, alcohol and medications known to cause drowsiness.
- Get more sleep at night.
- Take a nap before you drive.
- Drink a caffeinated beverage before driving.
- Take turns driving with another driver.
It is important for you to be completely alert when you are on the road. Driving while tired can lead to you making driving errors and missing hazardous motorist actions or road conditions. No matter how important an event seems or how late you may be, your safety should come first. Consider modifying your schedule and lifestyle to reduce your chances of drowsy driving.
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