With larger volumes of autos on the highway over the Christmas interval, drivers are suggested to be extra-cautious, significantly should you’re driving when feeling drained.
Final yr noticed a near-fatal crash happen on the M60 on Christmas Day, following a driver reportedly falling asleep behind the wheel, after working a 12-hour shift.
In mild of this, automobile specialists at Nationwide Scrap Automotive have partnered with Dr Lindsay Browning, a neurologist, psychologist and sleep knowledgeable at And So To Mattress on the very best recommendation to keep away from fatigue whereas driving and learn how to relaxation safely in your automobile.
1. Keep away from driving at occasions you might be naturally going to really feel sleepy
Persons are extra probably to go to sleep on the wheel when driving at occasions when their physique (their circadian rhythm) thinks they need to be asleep – particularly within the early hours of the morning (2-6 am) or simply after lunch (2-4 pm) once we are likely to have a second dip in alertness.
The easiest way to keep away from falling asleep on the wheel is to keep away from driving at occasions once we are prone to be sleepy – corresponding to avoiding driving within the early hours of the morning or simply after lunch.
2. Look out for fatigue signs
Recognising fatigue whereas driving may be difficult, as it might not at all times be obvious. Nonetheless, sure indicators, corresponding to experiencing heavy eyelids, frequent yawning, unintentionally veering onto the exhausting shoulder highway marker, or feeling like your focus is drifting, are all indicators that drowsiness could also be affecting you. Taking note of these indicators may also help you are taking immediate motion to make sure your security and that of others on the highway.
Experiencing head nods whereas driving is a robust indication of a microsleep, suggesting that you’ve certainly briefly dozed off on the wheel! Lengthy, monotonous driving, significantly on motorways, carries a better threat of drowsy driving in comparison with navigating via cities and winding roads.
3. Take a quick nap and caffeine
In conditions the place car-sharing choices are unavailable, and driving throughout probably drowsy occasions turns into vital, there are efficient interventions to spice up alertness for the journey. Take into account incorporating quick naps and caffeine consumption to remain extra attentive.
If you end up feeling drained or sleepy whereas driving, it’s essential to prioritise security. When potential, pull over at a service station and buy a big espresso. Devour the espresso after which recline your automobile seat to permit your self a quick nap. This mixture of caffeine and relaxation may also help refresh your focus and improve your alertness earlier than persevering with your drive.
4. Stick with a 15-20 minute nap solely
Taking a 15-20 minute nap can present a refreshing increase and assist alleviate drowsiness. Furthermore, throughout this timeframe, any consumed caffeine would have began to take impact, additional enhancing your alertness. Nevertheless, it’s essential to set an alarm in your telephone to restrict the nap length, making certain it lasts not more than 15-20 minutes, or chances are you’ll get up feeling groggy. This manner, you possibly can get up refreshed and able to proceed your journey with improved focus and attentiveness.
5. Be sure you pull over in a protected house
Earlier than you cease to relaxation, you should just remember to are parked legally and in a protected place. By no means cease for a break on the exhausting shoulder of a motorway, these are for emergencies solely corresponding to an accident or breakdown. If you end up getting drained on the motorway, pull over on the nearest service station. You can even cease for a nap in a parking lot so long as in a single day parking is allowed. It’s best to avoid parking on double yellow traces to keep away from any potential points.
Moreover, it goes with out saying that it is best to at all times ensure your automobile doorways are locked and ensure your engine is switched off earlier than taking a relaxation. You may additionally need to open a window barely so that you get some recent air.
