How You Know You’re Getting Drowsy

Being Aware

– You keep yawning or are unable to keep eyes open

– You catch yourself “nodding off ” and have trouble keeping your head up

– You can’t remember driving the last few miles

– You end up too close to cars in front of you or swerving

– Frequent blinking

– Yawning and head snaps

– Less Responsive

– Daydreaming

– Swerving or hitting rumble strips

If You're Exhibiting Signs of Drowsy Driving:

– Stop Driving and Call a Ride

– Take a 20-30 minute nap

– Consume at least 200mg of caffeine prior (not energy drinks)

– Use the buddy system—have your passenger share wakefulness and driving responsibilities

For Longer Trips Drivers Should Also:

– Travel at times when normally awake

– Schedule a break every two hours or every 100 miles

– Avoid heavy foods

– Travel with an alert passenger and take turns driving

– Avoid medications that cause drowsiness or other impairment

Keeping Yourself And Others Safe

“Drowsy driving is deadly, but it’s also completely avoidable. Parents need to talk with their kids about drowsy driving when they discuss other threats to driver safety such as distracted and drunk driving.”
– Dr. Nathaniel Watson American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Parents Need To Model Healthy Sleep Behavior:

– Help teens develop a consistent sleep schedule

– Set restrictions on screen time before bed

– Talk with young drivers about drowsy driving and how they can recognize the warning signs.

Or just sleep better with the following tips:

– Make sleep a priority—get 9-10 hours per night for a smarter, stronger, more attractive you!

– Get enough sleep in the first place so you don’t need an alarm clock

– Set up a regular sleep schedule and routine, and stick with it over the weekend

– Make your bedroom a NO-gadget zone

– Get plenty of light in the morning—both sunlight and artificial light helps

– Exercise, but not too close to bedtime

– Avoid evening naps

TOO SLEEPY TO OPERATE A VEHICLE
1 IN 5 DRIVERS ARE