One problem with driving the long hours and miles of a road trip is the possibility of getting drowsy. Road trip fatigue is actually a big safety concern.
According to a AAA study, one in six of all fatal car accidents involved a drowsy driver.
To prevent road trip fatigue from becoming a problem on your next vacation, here are some tips to help keep you alert.
- Don’t start with a sleep deficit. Get a full night’s sleep before heading out on your road trip.
- Drive during your normal waking hours. Your body has a natural sleep cycle that it becomes accustomed to. If you’re still on the road at your normal bedtime, your body will naturally want to go to sleep. Drowsiness is a major reason why driving at night is more dangerous.
- Take breaks. Monotony, along with the long periods of almost no physical activity, is the reason why road trip fatigue is a bigger problem than commuting fatigue. Stop every couple of hours, or more often if you’re feeling tired, and do something physical to keep your mind and body alert.
- Get something to eat or drink. You don’t want a big meal, but a small snack can give you added energy. And, of course, caffeine will help most people be more mentally alert.
- Have an awake passenger. If you have multiple drivers, it may make sense for one to nap so he or she will be rested and able to take over when you become tired. However, if you’re driving drowsy, it’s better to have someone who will talk with you and keep your mind engaged.
- Stop and sleep. If you’re getting drowsy, it’s far better to stop driving than to risk the safety of yourself, your passengers and other drivers on the road.
Some modern cars have safety features that monitor the driver and help keep them alert. Such features are more common on newer luxury cars, which can often be found through affordable lease transfers. To learn more about the options available to you, please contact us at Swapalease.com.
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