With larger volumes of autos on the highway over the Christmas interval, drivers are suggested to be extra-cautious, significantly for those who’re driving when feeling drained.
Final 12 months 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, car specialists at Nationwide Scrap Automotive have partnered with Dr Lindsay Browning, a neurologist, psychologist and sleep professional at And So To Mattress on the perfect recommendation to keep away from fatigue whereas driving and easy methods to relaxation safely in your car.
1. Keep away from driving at instances you’re naturally going to really feel sleepy
Individuals are extra probably to go to sleep on the wheel when driving at instances 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) after we are likely to have a second dip in alertness.
One of the best ways to keep away from falling asleep on the wheel is to keep away from driving at instances after we are more likely to be sleepy – resembling avoiding driving within the early hours of the morning or simply after lunch.
2. Look out for fatigue signs
Recognising fatigue whereas driving will be difficult, as it might not at all times be obvious. However, sure indicators, resembling experiencing heavy eyelids, frequent yawning, unintentionally veering onto the onerous 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 might 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 powerful indication of a microsleep, suggesting that you’ve got certainly briefly dozed off on the wheel! Lengthy, monotonous driving, significantly on motorways, carries a better threat of drowsy driving in comparison with navigating by cities and winding roads.
3. Take a short nap and caffeine
In conditions the place car-sharing choices are unavailable, and driving throughout doubtlessly drowsy instances turns into crucial, there are efficient interventions to spice up alertness for the journey. Think about incorporating brief 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 attainable, 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 short nap. This mix of caffeine and relaxation might help refresh your focus and improve your alertness earlier than persevering with your drive.
4. Follow a 15-20 minute nap solely
Taking a 15-20 minute nap can present a refreshing enhance 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 cellphone to restrict the nap period, making certain it lasts not more than 15-20 minutes, or you might get up feeling groggy. This manner, you’ll be able to get up refreshed and able to proceed your journey with improved focus and attentiveness.
5. Be sure you pull over in a secure area
Earlier than you cease to relaxation, it’s good to just remember to are parked legally and in a secure place. By no means cease for a break on the onerous shoulder of a motorway, these are for emergencies solely resembling 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. You need to avoid parking on double yellow strains to keep away from any potential points.
Moreover, it goes with out saying that you must at all times ensure that your automobile doorways are locked and ensure your engine is switched off earlier than taking a relaxation. You might also need to open a window barely so that you get some contemporary air.
