Crash Facts

"Midnight to 3 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays proved to be the deadliest 3-hour periods throughout 2000, with 1,271 and 1,218 fatal crashes, respectively. -2000-";

How To Prevent Drowsy Driving

HOW TO PREVENT DROWSY DRIVING

  • Begin your journey with a good night's sleep.
  • Avoid driving during late night and early morning hours, which are the body's natural sleep times.
  • Set realistic travel goals about the time it will take to reach your destination.
  • Eat healthy meals. Avoid foods high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to fatigue.
  • Avoid using alcohol or drugs.
  • Share the driving. Switch drivers about every two hours, even if you don't feel tired.
  • Take regular breaks. Stop every two hours to stretch.
  • Drink water, juice, or a soft drink low in sugar and caffeine. Sugar and caffeine promote short-term alertness but may increase drowsiness over longer periods of time.
  • Keep the inside of your vehicle at a cool temperature.
  • Listen to radio talk shows rather than music. The discussion format will help keep you alert.


WARNING SIGNS OF DROWSY DRIVING

  • Inability to recall the last few miles traveled
  • Having disconnected or wandering thoughts
  • Having difficulty focusing or keeping your eyes open
  • Feeling as though your head is very heavy
  • Drifting from the lane in which you are driving
  • Yawning repeatedly
  • Tailgating other vehicles
  • Missing traffic signs


WHAT TO DO IF YOU BECOME TIRED WHILE DRIVING

  • Find a safe place to stop the car.
  • Take a short nap (20 minutes).
  • Drink coffee to promote short-term alertness until you can find a safe place to rest.


(D0T997)