Many people drive at night or in the early morning, and most have had to at some point in their lives. Although driving during these hours is sometimes necessary, you should know that these are the times when the possibility of falling asleep at the wheel is at its highest. While many people believe they would never fall asleep at the wheel, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly 1 in every 25 drivers over 18 years old have fallen asleep while driving in the last 30 days.
There are ways that you can beat the exhaustion and keep yourself and others safe. Here are a few tips to stay awake to avoid a potential accident.
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Take a Nap
Rather than drive drowsy for the sake of time, it’s better to get to your destination in one piece. If you’re struggling to stay awake, find a safe place or rest stop that you can pull into and take a 20 or 30-minute power nap. Although taking the time to nap may put you behind your intended schedule, you’ll be more alert and drive safer after having rested your eyes and body before continuing your journey.
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Get Enough Sleep Before a Night Drive
Exhaustion will eventually catch up to you if you continually don’t get the amount of sleep your body needs. Remember, you’re operating a large motor vehicle and you need to be focused and aware of your surroundings. If you know you’re going to be driving when you’re normally sleeping, make sure to plan accordingly and get a sufficient amount of rest the night before your trip.
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Consume Caffeine
Coffee and many teas contain substantial amounts of caffeine that can give you a quick boost of energy while on the road. There are also caffeine supplements available that will give you the same effect. If needed, consume caffeine before or while you’re driving to help you stay awake and alert and ensure you get to your destination safely.
We hope these tips help you stay safe on your next trip. If you or a loved one are injured in an accident caused by someone’s drowsy driving, it is crucial that you talk to an experienced attorney to review your recovery options. Our firm can go over your accident with you to decide next steps for the best resolution.
Call (800) 905-8777 now for a free consultation concerning your accident!