Each year in the U.S, drowsy driving claims the lives of hundreds of people. However, falling asleep at the wheel is preventable. Whether your fatigued from having a bad night sleep, working late or the stress of a new baby – driving while drowsy is dangerous. Here you will find warning signs and tips to avoid driving drowsy to keep yourself and others safe.

Are You Driving Drowsy?

5 Warning Signs

  1. Having trouble keeping your eyes open and focused
  2. The inability to keep your head up
  3. Daydreaming or having wandering, disconnected thoughts
  4. Drifting from your lane or off the road, or tailgating
  5. Yawning frequently or rubbing your eyes repeatedly

How to Avoid Driving Drowsy

6 Tips to Drive Alert

Make sleep a priority! – getting adequate sleep (7-8 hours) on a daily basis is the only way to protect yourself against the risks of driving when you’re drowsy.

  1. Plan ahead – Before the start of a long family car trip, get a good night’s sleep, and take turns driving with someone else if possible.
  2. Advise teens – to delay driving until they’re well-rested. Many teens do not get enough sleep at a stage in life when their biological need for sleep increases.
  3. Avoid any alcohol – before driving, it increases drowsiness and impairment.
  4. Check prescriptions – and over-the-counter medication labels to see if drowsiness could result from their use.
  5. Avoid peak hours – avoid driving during the peak sleepiness periods (midnight – 6 a.m. and late afternoon). If you must drive stay vigilant for signs of drowsiness.

                                  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)