Whether you’re driving for business or pleasure, fatigue is a major cause of car accidents. One can be mistaken and think that driving fatigue only happens to drivers who drive long distances. This assumption is not correct as all drivers experience fatigue – in as much they drive. Driving is physically demanding in that you have to hit the road again despite other conditions like long working hours, shortage of sleep, tasks that are physically demanding, and the likes.
There are obvious risks that accompany driving despite having fatigue. One could cause auto accidents or even suffer life-threatening accidents that may result in death. As a result, it is imperative that drivers learn how to reduce fatigue while driving on the road. This content focuses on important tips that would help to survive; follow closely.
How can a driver reduce fatigue while driving?
- Ensure you have enough rest before you start
Driving when you have not gotten enough rest can easily lead to fatigue. The body is already tired from any previous activity; it is about to undergo another strenuous event while it is yet to recover. Doing this will only increase fatigue while driving.
Rather, take more time to get enough rest. If you are going on a long journey, take a longer rest time. This will keep your body in a good shape.
- Avoid starting your car trip late
Sometimes, fatigue while driving comes from stressful driving. Stressful driving happens when you start your car trip late in an attempt to beat time. In this state, you will not only drive fast but you might drive roughly. You may also drive fast into ditches or road bumps – all this increases your body fatigue.
- Keep good body posture
Fatigue sometimes could arise from bad body posture while driving. You should ensure your car seat is erect enough that you can see through the windscreen. Keeping bad body posture may not have its effect in the early hours of driving but it will over time. Also, it can keep the body in a terrible shape.
Once you are in a car and about to begin to drive, the first thing you should do is ensure the seat will help you to maintain great body posture. After that, properly fit your seatbelt to ensure that the body posture is accurate. Then, you can begin your journey. Unless you are taking a break, do not remove your seatbelt or alter this posture while driving.
- Make the environment of the car stimulating
One can avoid fatigue while driving by making the environment of the car stimulating. You can tune in to your favorite radio station or listen to slow music as you drive. You can also travel with a companion who engages you and makes the journey an exciting one.
However, you must keep your cool while driving. Music, radio, or a traveling partner can also be distractions. Do not take your eyes off the road while enjoying any of these. Remember, getting safely to your destination is the reward for good driving.
- Do not eat heavy meals before driving
Generally, heavy meals increase fatigue in the body. You might feel like taking a short nap after consuming heavy meals. Hence, it is always advisable to avoid them if you are about to drive any long distances. Even if you are able to pull through while driving and arrive safely at your destination, you will feel more fatigued than if you had consumed a lighter meal.
If you have to eat heavy meals at all, take them at least two hours before you set out on the road. The food would have been broken down and absorbed into your body before the two hours elapsed.
- Take constant breaks
Constant breaks are inevitable for a long journey. Breaks will allow you to stretch, rejuvenate, and be in better shape for the next journey. If the journey extends into the next day, you should have a stop and get a proper night’s rest before setting out again.
- Avoid taking alcohol while driving
All individuals are advised to avoid drinking alcohol if they are to drive. Alcohol could have a negative effect and alter your body coordination while driving. Alcohol is not an energy drink or booster. It has a relaxing effect and puts your body in a relaxing mode.
This state of the body is not proper for driving. Rather than drink alcohol, you can drink water or other beverages to stay refreshed. You can always have a drink at the end of the journey after you have safely arrived at the destination.
Conclusion
“The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that every year about 100,000 police-reported, drowsy-driving crashes result in nearly 800 fatalities and about 50,000 injuries,” according to Armen Khoshoryan, lawyer at Baldwin Park Accident Lawyers Group. “Driving with much fatigue can be dangerous to lives and properties.”
You can follow the above tips to stay agile and active while driving. Stay safe at all times.
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