Driving Fatigued

Driving fatigue is a condition that affects everyone at one time or another. Crashes resulting from microsleep, which lasts from 5-10 seconds and is related to your circadian rhythm, are known to occur more frequently than once thought. Circadian rhythm causes nearly everyone to be less alert or even drowsy between 1 pm-5 pm and between 8 pm and 9 pm. In fact, drivers who become drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel contribute to 200,000 crashes yearly.

What causes fatigue?

• Stress
• Boredom
• Sun glare
• Monotony

Effects of fatigue

• It impairs your vision and other senses
• Judgment and decision-making abilities slow down
• Causes you to misjudge the speed and distance of other vehicles

Many fatigued drivers become irritable, discourteous, and overreact to minor irritations.

If you are taking a long trip, follow the guidelines below:

• Be well rested
• Wear sunglasses
• Avoid heavy foods
• Be aware of your physiological downtime
• Stop periodically
• Have another person ride with you
• Share the driving
• Drink beverages that contain caffeine

Actions that will not help:

• Opening the windows
• Playing the stereo at a high volume
• Driving faster
• Trying to tough it out

If you feel fatigued while driving, pull over as soon as it’s safe to avoid a possible crash. Taking a nap between 30-45 minutes long will help you stay alert for another 3-4 hours.