You may think you are safe to get on the road after lack of sleep but according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving can be fatal, causing more than 100,000 crashes per year.
If you work long hours or the night shift, are a commercial driver, use medications that cause drowsiness, have an untreated sleep disorder, or even regularly get fewer than 7 hours of sleep, you are at risk. Drowsy driving affects everyone but if you have one of these conditions you are likely more at risk.
It is important to take some preventative measures if you know you are at risk at driving drowsy. If possible, get at least 7, preferably 9 hours of sleep each night. Also, try to plan ahead. If you are constantly traveling for business try to slowly adjust your sleeping times to match the clock at your next destination.
Untreated sleep disorders can be fatal. If you are oddly drowsy for a long period of time, contact your doctor immediately and schedule an appointment. It is equally important to be aware of the side effects of all the medications you consume.
If you find yourself behind the wheel and your eyelids are feeling heavy, or you notice yourself constantly yawning or having wandering thoughts, pull over to the nearest gas station. You can either get some caffeine or if you have the time, pull off somewhere safe to nap.
Agers Insurance located in Oakley, California encourages you not to drive drowsy. Contact the insurance specialists at Agers Insurance for all of your insurance inquiries.