Frederick County Highway Safety Task Force Drowsy Driving

[FAQS] [Warning Signs] [Prevention] [Tips] [Related Sites]

Did you know...

• According to the National Sleep Foundations, at least 1,500 Americans die every year in drowsy driving accidents
• Sleepiness slows reaction time, decreases awareness, and impairs judgement, just like drugs or alcohol
• Many fatigue-related accidents occur between 1:00pm and 4:00pm
• 52% of adult Americans have driven while drowsy and 31% have, at some time, fallen asleep at the wheel (According to the National Sleep Foundation)

Know the Warning Signs:

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are several signs that indicate when a driver is in danger of driving drowsy:

• Inability to recall the last few miles traveled
• Having disconnected or wandering thoughts
• Having difficulty focusing or keeping your eyes open
• Feeling as though your head is very heavy
• Drifting from the lane in which you are driving
• Yawning repeatedly
• Tailgating other vehicles
• Missing traffic signs

Preventing Drowsy Driving:

Below are several tips to help prevent drowsy driving:

• Begin your journey with a good night's sleep
• Avoid driving during late night and early morning hours, which are the body's natural sleep times.
• Set realistic travel goals about the time it will take to reach your destination.
• Eat healthy meals. Avoid foods high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to fatigue.
• Avoid using alcohol or drugs.
• Share the driving. Switch drivers about every two hours, even if you don't feel tired.
• Take regular breaks. Stop every two(2) hours to stretch, take a walk, nap, or exercise before getting back in the car.
• Drink water, juice, or a soft drink low in sugar and caffeine. Sugar and caffeine promote short-term alertness but may increase drowsiness over longer periods of time.
• Keep the inside of your vehicle at a cool temperature.
• Listen to radio talk shows rather than music. The discussion format will help keep you alert.
• If possible, talk with a passenger.

Safety Tips for Drowsy Driving:

If you become tired while driving, you should:

• Find a safe place to stop the car.
• Take a short nap (20 minutes).
• Drink coffee to promote short-term alertness until you can find a safe place to rest.

Other Sites Related to Drowsy Driving:

• Facts on Drowsy Driving
• Silent cause of traffic deaths: falling asleep (USA Weekend May 1997)
• Test Your Sleep I.Q.

[FAQS] [Warning Signs] [Prevention] [Tips] [Related Sites]