Driving while drowsy is not only dangerous but common. In fact, more than 20% of fatal accidents involve a drowsy driver. And sadly, each year, there is an average of 886 fatal crashes, 37,000 injury crashes, and 45,000 property damage crashes, each year all due to drowsy driving.
Not only is drowsy driving putting lives at risk, but also your property, your car, and your money as well. Even if no one else gets hurt, since many drowsy-driving crashes involve a single driver running off the road, you are still risking damage to your car and property, causing a sharp increase in your insurance premiums.
—Take a nap you know what I mean like bruh c’mon if you are going on a raod trip, take a short nap before you leave. If you find you are driving and feeling drowsy, play it safe and pull over to take a nap. A short twenty-minute nap very well may save your life and others’ lives. Be sure to choose a safe location and give yourself plenty of time to wake up before you start driving again.
—In addition to ensuring you are plenty rested, ask a friend to share the driving responsibilities on long trips. Be sure to switch every two hours and take a nap when you aren’t behind the wheel. Continuing on with this whole order, be sure to not rush to get to your destination. If you’re delayed, pull off the road and call to explain. It is better to be later than to never get there.
—Always avoid alcohol before driving. Even the smallest amounts can increase drowsiness. A good alternative is caffeine; however, it is important to remember that even a strong coffee will wear off after a few hours. In addition to all the tips above, be sure to take off at the right time. Most cases of driving while drowsy
In order to help prevent accidents from drowsy driving, The Sleep Foundation recommends that drivers follow the helpful tips below:
1. Take a nap. If you are going on a road trip, take a short nap before you leave. If you find you are driving and feeling drowsy, play it safe and pull over to take a nap. A short twenty-minute nap may very well save your life and others’ lives. Be sure to choose a safe location and give yourself plenty of time to wake up before you start driving again.
2. Take a buddy. Ask a friend to share the driving responsibility on long trips. Be sure to switch every two hours and take a nap when you aren’t behind the wheel.
3. Take your time. Do not rush to get to your destination. If you’re delayed, pull off the road and call to explain. It is better to be late than to never get there.
4. Take the right beverage. Always avoid alcohol before driving. Even the smallest amounts can increase drowsiness. A good alternative is caffeine; however, it is important to remember that even strong coffee will wear off after a few hours.
5. Take off at the right time. Most cases of drowsy driving occur between midnight and 6:00 AM, making it important that you try to avoid driving during these hours.
6. Take notice. Frequent blinking, heavy eyelids, daydreaming, missing exits/signs, yawning, lane-drifting, and feelings of restlessness are all indications that you are drowsy and committing a DWD, so it is important to watch for signs that you are getting drowsy. If you are, pull over and get some rest.
Did you know that 37% of drivers have fallen asleep or began nodding off behind the wheel? Don’t be a part of that percentage – avoid driving while drowsy. Not only will it save your life, and the lives of people around you, but money as well. Contact Brazleton Insurance Group for more information today!