9 tips to avoid falling asleep at the wheel
Fatigue at the wheel is a common cause of accidents, especially on long journeys, such as those made during the holidays.
However, fatigue and the risk of falling asleep at the wheel can also occur on shorter trips, such as commuting, as the routine of driving can lead to a drop in attention. Here are some tips to stay alert while driving
Make sure you're well rested
It may sound simple, but the quality of your rest the night before plays an important role in maintaining your alertness and attention behind the wheel. Avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine the night before a long commute, as this can affect the quality of your sleep.
Stop at the first sign of drowsiness
From you notice that you blink more often or that you have had to Trouble keeping your eyes open, you have to stop. Look for an area of rest or park in a safe place, away from traffic. Tilt your Seat and take a nap. Many drivers set goals for themselves distance or time before taking a break, but it is not wise to Fight fatigue, as this can have serious consequences.
A A quick nap, lasting 10 to 15 minutes, may be enough to restore alertness necessary to drive safely. Before leaving, remember to ventilate the vehicle and take a short walk to revitalise yourself.
Take breaks every 2 hours or every 200 kilometres
It's A common tip, which is often seen on road signs. Make a Take a short break during your journey to stretch your legs and hydrate yourself and cooling down is a great way to invigorate your body after a few days. long periods of inactivity.
Avoid driving at night
The The risk of drowsy driving is significantly higher at night. Our natural biorhythm is adapted to daytime activity, which accentuates our drowsiness at nightfall. Unless absolutely necessary, it is Best to avoid driving during the hours when you sleep usually.
Avoid heavy meals
The Hearty meals, especially those high in fat, sugar and carbohydrates, can lead to drowsiness. Fatty foods prolong the digestion, while sugary foods can cause a release insulin, which has sedative effects. If you plan to drive soon after Having eaten, opt for a light meal instead.
Stimulant drinks are only effective for short periods of time
From Many drivers rely on coffee or energy drinks containing caffeine to combat drowsiness. If coffee is a powerful stimulant, its effects are short-lived and, once worn off, the Drowsiness can quickly return, especially if sugar is added. In Summary, caffeinated substances are ideal for short trips and do not should in no way replace a nap or adequate rest.
Use available security systems
From Many modern vehicles are equipped with technology designed to detect signs of drowsiness in the driver and alert him with signals sound. If your vehicle is equipped with these systems, use them systematically. However, these warnings should not be considered as a way to keep you awake; They are reminders to stop quickly.
Maintain a pleasant temperature in the car
In the Over time, the air inside the vehicle can become stale due to a excess carbon dioxide. Use air conditioning to cool the air in cabin or briefly roll down the windows to let air in Fresh. A cool breeze on your face can help you stay alert, But remember that these measures should be used to prevent drowsiness, not to fight it once it has set in.
Listen to the radio or chat with your passenger
This This tip can help you stay alert, but it shouldn't distract you. According to the Highway Code, drivers must remain fully attentive to the road. Therefore, listening to music or chatting should never compromise your ability to concentrate on driving. Music an entertaining radio show or an interesting story can help you to stay awake, but they don't should not distract your attention from the road.
