You might be reluctant to admit it, but most likely at some time you've pushed on a bit too far when you were tired and should've pulled over to rest. Instead, you kept going and nearly fell asleep at the wheel. This scenario is just too common on America's highways.
Because it's so difficult to detect with a particular test or measurement, drowsiness and fatigue are particularly dangerous. You owe it to yourself - and to other drivers - to recognize the signs of fatigue and pull over to rest when you shouldn't be behind the wheel.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, about one million crashes each year - or about one sixth of all crashes - are attributed singularly to fatigue or inattention, and on U.S. highways, nearly half of all fatal crashes are thought to be caused by inattention. The U.S. Department of Transportation also estimates that about four percent of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. are linked to fatigue.
Although drowsy drivers are difficult to categorize, according to accident data, those who fit the profile of the most frequent drowsy drivers are young people (more often males), those who have varied work hours, drivers who insist on driving through the night or drive long distances between breaks, and those who take medication (or alcohol) which causes sleepiness. Frequent drivers and those who drive alone are also more often susceptible to drive with a dangerous level of fatigue.
As a passenger, here are some signals of excessive fatigue to look for in the driver:
Weaving. The driver stops making as many steering corrections, requiring each one to be more jerky and severe.
Erratic, confused behavior. The driver either has become very quiet or seems to be relying on conversation to stay awake. What he/she says isn't making sense.
Restlessness; fidgeting. Oddly enough, this is sometimes a sign that the driver is on the verge of falling asleep, and that he/she is moving around to fight it. It can also be a sign that he/she needs to get out and take a walk. But in either case, pull over and take a break.
Tailgating unusually close to other vehicles. Any deviation from the driver's usual style is an indication, but this is especially dangerous given the inattention and greatly reduced reaction time that goes along with fatigue.
Passing over rumble strips. Crossing over shoulder-side rumble strips multiple times is a sign that the driver should pull over for some rest.
The jerking neck. Termed microsleep by those who study drowsy drivers, this is when the driver actually falls asleep for a moment.
Other physical signs of fatigue. Frequent yawning, shallow breathing, and eye blinking that becomes less frequent are sure signs of fatigue.
If you experience any of the following while behind the wheel, stop driving:
Extremely tired eyes. You have difficulty keeping your eyes open or focusing.
Weaving. You're finding yourself straying outside of the lane, or onto the rumble strips.
Lost time. You can't remember the last stretch of road.
Disorientation. Aside from really being lost, disorientation while driving is a likely sign of fatigue.
If you experience any of these things, don't assume that some cool air, loud music, or even caffeine is going to keep you awake. Find a safe place to pull over, and take a short nap.
Minimizing the chances of becoming drowsy behind the wheel:
Get a full night of sleep before traveling. Remember that if you have gone several days without a full eight hours of sleep, it may take more than one night to be "caught up".
Avoid alcohol before traveling. Consuming even a moderate amount of alcohol the night before driving increases fatigue the next day.
Moderate your sugar intake. Just as sugary drinks and snacks will give you a quick boost, they'll also leave you suddenly and unexpectedly fatigued a short time later. Stick with water, natural juices (not juice drinks), or unsweetened ice tea to avoid the sugar roller coaster ride.
Stop every two hours for a break. Walk around briskly and get your circulation going. Kick the soccer ball around for a few minutes, or toss a Frisbee.
Bring a companion. Live conversation will stimulate you far better than music or books on tape, and a companion is more likely to urge you to pull over when it's time.
