Common Signs of Drowsiness
- Yawning repeatedly
- Struggling to keep your eyes open or focused
- Forgetting the last few miles driven
- Tailgating or missing traffic signals
- Swerving or drifting between lanes of traffic
Tips to Prevent Drowsiness
- Take a nap: Motorists who feel drowsy should pull over into a well-lit area and take a 20-minute nap. Make regular stops or switch drivers every 100 miles or 2 hours.
- Avoid drowsy driving times: Drivers are most likely to feel drowsy between 1-4 p.m. and 2-6 a.m. If possible, avoid driving during these times.
- Don’t count on caffeine: It can provide a short fix or ‘pick me up.’ But be aware, it takes 30 minutes before you feel the effect and it can wear off quickly.
- Avoid drowsy medications: Certain prescriptions and over-the-counter can make you drowsy.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Common myths: Opening the windows, turning up the radio, or turning on the air conditioner will not help you stay awake while driving.