Ways to avoid driver fatigue: A few tips

As per the US department of transportation, nearly half of all vehicle accidents happen as a result of driving fatigue. Falling asleep at the wheel as a result of insufficient rest has always been one of the major culprits behind major accidents. So how can you keep fatigue at bay while you are at the wheel? Let’s see.

Introduction

Talk over music

You might argue here saying that hard rock and metal music seldom put people to sleep. After a long period of time, any music has the power to actually lull people into a trance, making them feel sleepy. Hence, it’s advisable to listen to talk over music especially after a few long hours with music.

Avoid cruise control

While on a long drive, cruise control can be your friend. But it’s definitely your foe when you are feeling tired. The activity of using your feet on the gas pedal and brake might not sound much but it actually helps to keep you wake. Without it, there’s not much to do. Hence, it’s better to avoid cruise control especially when you are feeling drowsy at the wheel.

Eat healthy

Eating is a good tactic to keeping fatigue to a minimum. But it does come with a few caveats. Eating healthy and crunchy snacks during driving is deemed fine but eating too much sugar is not. That’s because sugar can lead to highs and lows which in turn can result in drowsiness and ultimately to crashes.

Drink caffeine

Caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea and soft drinks can be really helpful in moderation. But try not to overuse them. Have a coffee or a caffeinated beverage sparingly. Once every four hours is recommended as a part of a rule of thumb.

Turn up your AC

Put the temperature inside the car a few degrees lower than your comfort zone so that you can at least feel the chill. This can definitely help you to stay alert.

Conclusion

Almost all solutions mentioned above are temporary. The permanent one still remains the same. There’s still no alternative to having a good night sleep before the day of your drive. And try not to drive more than 8 hours per day. Small things like that can go a long way indeed.

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