Drowsy Drivers

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

10 Mar 2007 07:29 AM

Tomorrow we spring ahead for the start of daylight savings time. This, of course, means that it will still be light out well after many of us have eaten dinner. For some of us it also means it will still be light out as our spouses drive home from work. But, did you know that the start of daylight savings time also means that our roads and highways become more dangerous?

According to the National Road Safety Foundation, a non-profit group that provides free driver safety programs for schools and other organizations, the time change throws off our internal clock, and it can take as long as two weeks for our bodies to adjust. Which means a driver is more likely to get behind the wheel fatigued. And that, experts say, can be as dangerous as drinking and driving.

I'll admit that there have been times that I have headed out on the highway without a good night's sleep, but studies show I am not alone. According to the National Road Safety Foundation, more than 60% of motorists drive while feeling drowsy, and more than a third admit to having fallen asleep at the wheel in the past year. In fact, research shows fatigue is a major factor in a substantial number of traffic-related accidents.

Experts say there are several signs that should serve as warnings that you should pull over and rest, including:

· Frequent blinking

· Difficulty focusing

· Head nodding

· Repeated yawning or rubbing eyes

· Dosing off

· Drifting out of your lane or hitting shoulder rumble strips

Should you experience any of these warning signs, experts recommend pulling over at the next exit or a safe rest area and taking a 20-minute nap. You could also have a cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage. But, remember, it takes 30 minutes for the caffeine to enter your bloodstream.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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