Preventing Fatigue-Related Crashes

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

29 Jun 2007 09:22 PM

In a previous blog I told you about my days as a drowsy driver. I also gave you proof that there are many more drowsy drivers on the highways than you might think. I ended the blog by asking you if you have ever driven while fatigued. If you answered yes, then this blog may offer you some aid.

The following are tips to help you prevent drifting off behind the wheel.

Drive During Daylight Hours. Research has shown that fatigue-related crashes are most common between midnight and 6 a.m. As such, experts advise avoiding driving during those hours if possible, particularly if you are normally asleep during that period.

Recognize Drowsiness. One reason fatigue-related crashes are so common is that drivers often that they fail to recognize the warning signs. Yawning is one of the first signs. Other telltale signs are veering out of your lane, and suddenly noticing that you're too close to the car ahead. A sure sign of drowsiness is that your eyes feel heavy or your body feels stiff. Daydreaming while driving is another serious warning sign. Any of these symptoms can mean you should get off the road.

Don't Try To Tough It Out. I was the queen of "just another few miles." Don't make the same mistake. When you are dosing off pull over. The best thing to do is to find a safe place and take a nap. Ideally you should get a good night's rest, then resume your trip in daylight.

Take Breaks. Make it a point to stop every 100 miles or every two hours. Get out of your vehicle, walk around, and get the blood flowing. If you decide to get something to eat make sure you keep your meal light, because eating a heavy meal can contribute to drowsiness.

One final note about driving while drowsy. If you are a regular viewer of "Dateline NBC" and wondered why former correspondent John Hockenberry is in a wheelchair, the answer is a fatigue-related accident. When he was a college student, he accepted a ride from a stranger on I-80. He fell asleep in the car and so did the driver. The car veered off the road. The driver was killed. Hockenberry suffered spinal cord damage, and he remains paralyzed from the mid-chest down.

Related Articles:

Drowsy Drivers

Drowsy Driving

On The Road: Tips For Women Who Travel Alone

On The Road--More Tips For Women Who Travel Alone

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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