With greater volumes of automobiles on the highway over the Christmas interval, drivers are suggested to be extra-cautious, significantly in the event 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 gentle of this, car specialists at Nationwide Scrap Automobile 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 methods to relaxation safely in your car.
1. Keep away from driving at instances you might be naturally going to really feel sleepy
Persons are extra possible 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) once 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 once we are more likely to be sleepy – comparable to avoiding driving within the early hours of the morning or simply after lunch.
2. Look out for fatigue signs
Recognising fatigue whereas driving might be difficult, as it could not all the time be obvious. Nonetheless, sure indicators, comparable to experiencing heavy eyelids, frequent yawning, unintentionally veering onto the arduous shoulder highway marker, or feeling like your focus is drifting, are all indicators that drowsiness could also be affecting you. Paying attention to these indicators will help you’re 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 certainly briefly dozed off on the wheel! Lengthy, monotonous driving, significantly on motorways, carries the next threat of drowsy driving in comparison with navigating by means of 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 obligatory, there are efficient interventions to spice up alertness for the journey. Think about 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 attainable, pull over at a service station and buy a big espresso. Eat the espresso after which recline your automotive seat to permit your self a short nap. This mix of caffeine and relaxation will help refresh your focus and improve your alertness earlier than persevering with your drive.
4. Persist with 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. Nonetheless, it’s essential to set an alarm in your telephone to restrict the nap period, making certain it lasts not more than 15-20 minutes, or it’s possible you’ll get up feeling groggy. This manner, you may get up refreshed and able to proceed your journey with improved focus and attentiveness.
5. Be sure you pull over in a secure house
Earlier than you cease to relaxation, it’s worthwhile to just be sure you are parked legally and in a secure place. By no means cease for a break on the arduous shoulder of a motorway, these are for emergencies solely comparable to an accident or breakdown. If you end up getting drained on the motorway, pull over on the nearest service station. You may also cease for a nap in a carpark so long as in a single day parking is allowed. You need to keep away from parking on double yellow strains to keep away from any potential points.
Moreover, it goes with out saying that you need to all the time be certain that your automotive doorways are locked and ensure your engine is switched off earlier than taking a relaxation. You may additionally wish to open a window barely so that you get some recent air.
