How to Avoid Drowsy Driving

As someone who struggles with driving anxiety but frequently gets behind the wheel; I spend a lot of time contemplating how to make my journeys safer and more comfortable. It’s something I feel like a lot of motorists take way too lightly. We live busy, intense lives with hundreds of distractions and thousands of things beyond our control. Sometimes these play on our mind and from time-to-time get in the way of a good night’s sleep. Just the other day, a car in front of me was struggling to keep steady and it got me thinking about the importance of knowing how to avoid drowsy driving.

Safe driving is about well-maintained attention, good situational awareness and the ability to react efficiently. Drowsy driving is dangerous because it reduces reaction times and the ability to comprehend potential problems and risks. It’s all about micro-reactions and split decisions.

Safety is paramount; driving riskily puts yourself, passengers, other drivers and pedestrians at risk. Nothing is worth that. So, if you notice any of these signs, you should be rethinking the drive.

• Inability to focus.
• You mind wandering and falling into scattered thoughts or daydreams.
• Struggling to keep your eyes open; heavy tired, sore or achy eyes.
• Lost or missed time.
• Inability to recall parts of the journey, missed exits or general confusion.
• Irritability, mood swings, frustration and restlessness.
• Lane drifting.
• Hitting the rumble strip on the side shoulder.
• Not being able to keep a steady speed.

Without exception, being safe to drive is of critical importance. When these signs show; it is time to stop and consider what you do next. Wherever you need to be and whatever the timeframe, it doesn’t outweigh the risks. It’s time to crank up the air-con, take a 20 minute nap, get caffeine or a co-driver.

The Busy Papa

Also known as Aaron, The Busy Papa focuses on lifestyle, parenting and personal wellbeing content. He has two decades experience in creative writing (including several published poems) and strongly dislikes (though tolerates) tomatoes.