Driving safety: How one mistake can cost lives

No matter where you're going or how much fun you have planned, the fact remains that vacations are tiring for travellers. Many people choose to travel by car instead of other means of transportation. This way, you can avoid flight delays or cancellations and easily get to your destination without crowds. However, no matter how many advantages there are, you shouldn't forget about an important point: drowsiness.

In fact, this is a very common problem. According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 21% of fatal accidents are caused by drowsy drivers. This was reported by Huffington Post. Therefore, we are going to tell you everything you need to know before getting behind the wheel, especially if you are tired.

Drowsiness: when it occurs

According to the New York State Department of Health, most sleep-related accidents occur between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m., and between 2:00 and 6:00 a.m. So, heading out early in the morning is not a good idea. The afternoon drive should be avoided as well. This is the time when the body is usually most tired and when you are biologically predisposed to be more sleepy due to the peaks and troughs of your internal biological clock.

Causes of sleepiness

You don't get enough sleep and it is not regular

One of the biggest contributors to drowsy driving is a lack of sleep. This can lead to difficulty concentrating, reacting, and even falling asleep behind the wheel. However, the amount of sleep each person needs differs. In general, an adult needs seven to nine hours a night.

Sleep-related disorders

If you feel that you have difficulty falling asleep, or vice versa, sleep too much, then consult a doctor. This can be a symptom of mental illness. Therefore, it is very important to seek medical help from a doctor.

Use of medications or alcohol

Alcohol and certain medications, such as antihistamines or benzodiazepines, contribute to drowsiness and impairment of cognitive function. Therefore, for example, if you are enjoying a few cocktails by the pool, you should never drive in this state. Even small amounts of alcohol and certain drugs can cause drowsiness, poor coordination, and slowed reactions, making driving dangerous. Therefore, before taking medications, read the detailed instructions or consult your doctor.

The distance to be covered

"Driving at night increases the risk of drowsiness even if you think you're well rested ," said Holly Milling, a clinical psychologist, behavioral sleep medicine specialist, and director of The Sleep Practice. "Driving for long periods of time at any time of day is very tiring, and driving can be dangerous."

Pull over immediately: signs to look out for

- It is difficult to remember the rules of driving;

- You can barely open your eyes and can't concentrate on the road;

- Driving into another lane;

- Frequent yawning;

- You are in a state of anxiety and fuss;

- Failure to maintain a stable speed;

- Slow reaction time.

Even if you are sure that you will not fall asleep, driving with these symptoms can be deadly.

What to do if you are tired while driving

- Take a nap for at least 20-30 minutes;

- Drink a cup of coffee (recommended caffeine dose is 200 mg) 30 minutes before driving;

- Light physical activity. Although it may seem strange at first glance, exercise can wake you up and increase your alertness;

- Consider other options for getting to your destination. For example, use public transportation or ask someone to drive you. You can also make stops along the way and stay in motels.