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Driving when drowsy can significantly affect road safety. Studies showed that drowsy drivers account for an estimated 12.5% in fatal crashes and auto accidents annually. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s annual Traffic Safety Culture Index reports that more than a third of drivers admit they have fallen asleep while driving at some point in their lives, with more than 1 in 10 being involved in drowsy driving within the past year. What’s more, studies showed that drivers are fighting drowsy driving in wrong ways. This includes drinking caffeine, playing loud music, pulling over to stretch or exercise, opening their windows, or even turning up their air conditioning. All of these were proven to do little to nothing at all when it comes to combating the deadly effects of drowsy driving.
These staggering numbers only showed how drivers lack awareness when it comes to the dangers of drowsy driving. To combat drowsiness, only a few drivers consider switching drivers or pulling over to take a nap. The majority would depend on drinking caffeinated beverages to provide them with a jolt of alertness. However, credible studies showed that the effect of caffeine only lasts for a short time.
Miracle Body and Paint in San Antonio advises drivers to do the following to effectively combat drowsy driving:
- Plan on getting sufficient sleep before driving.
- Totally avoid alcohol.
- Avoid or limit driving between midnight and 6 a.m.
- Opt to switch driving duties with a passenger who is well rested.
- Take a short nap (about 15 to 20 minutes) instead of consuming caffeine.
- If you want to take caffeine, remember that this only provides a temporary fix. Consider taking a nap or regrouping for longer journeys.
Remember that drowsy driving can be just as deadly as drunk driving. Since strategies such as opening the window or listening to the radio has not been proven effective yet, don’t compromise you and your passenger’s safety by relying on such methods.
Be sure to visit the Miracle Body and Paint blog for more driving tips and tricks and don’t hesitate to contact us for any auto repair needs.
