There are a number of behaviors that are frowned upon when driving. Huge campaigns have been waged to combat texting while driving and drunk driving, but there’s one kind of driving that’s just as dangerous, and that’s drowsy driving. It’s important to understand the impact of drowsy driving, and the following numbers give you just a hint of the kind of damage drowsy driving can have on yourself and others.
Drowsy Driving by the Numbers:
- More than one-third of drivers (or 103 million people) have fallen asleep while driving in the past year
- Drowsy driving causes an estimated $12.5 billion in monetary losses
- Fatigued drivers cause an estimated 1,550 deaths a year and an estimated 71,000 injuries per year
- Drowsy driving incidents can lead to jail time for the driver
With those kinds of numbers, it’s easy to see why drowsy driving is a hazard on the road. That is why all Bay and Bay Transportation drivers in the Indianapolis area should be educated on what to do to prevent sleepiness on the road, and what to do when fatigue sets in while driving.
Preventative Measures:
- Sleep for a solid 7-8 hours before you drive: this will help you prevent those sleepy feelings, heavy eyelids, and lack of focus on the road.
- Take a pre-drive nap: even a short nap can help you stay alert and focused while driving
- Drink caffeine as you drive: caffeine will improve your alertness as you drive, though beware of the effect wearing off
- Don’t drink alcohol: Even if you’re well under the legal limit for alcohol, it can still impair your driving by causing fatigue on the road
When Fatigue Hits:
- Stop the truck: this is the most important step to take if you feel sleepy on the road
- Give yourself a break: stepping out of the truck and getting some fresh Indianapolis air can help combat fatigue, but take care not to drive if you’re still feeling sleepy
- Take a nap: even 15-30 minutes of sleep can have a positive effect on your mood and fatigue
All Indianapolis area Bay and Bay truck drivers should be aware of the true dangers of driving drowsy. Do yourself a favor and NEVER drive when that sleepy feeling hits.