According to the NSC, drowsy driving causes around 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,560 fatalities each year, and according to NHTSA, distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2020. While working as a professional driver, it is your responsibility to be safe, keep others safe, and stay aware on the road.
You cannot drive safely if you are not fully focused on the road ahead of you and if your full attention isn’t on the task of driving.
Here are a few tips and things to be mindful of to help you stay safe and avoid getting into dangerous situations while driving
Tips to prevent fatigue
- Make sure to get enough sleep
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Exercise regularly or at least walk 30 minutes every day
- Avoid drinks high in sugar
- Keep your cab cool and ventilated
- Drive at an erect angle with your legs at a 45-degree angle
Tips to prevent getting distracted
- Adjust the volume of the music in the vehicle
- Avoid eating hearty meals while driving
- Avoid texting on your phone
- If you drive with pets, secure them before going
- Keep your eyes on the road at all times!
Fatigue warning signs
- Uncontrollable closing of the eyes
- Impaired vision
- Blinking more than usual
- Feeling exhausted
- Daydreaming
- Swerving in and out of your lane
- Your head or neck feels heavy
Driver fatigue is most likely between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. and during the so-called “afternoon slump”.
If you feel the warning signs and are unable to drive longer due to fatigue, find the closest safe place and pull over immediately!
Get out of the driver’s chair and, if possible, take a 30-minute break. Stretch your legs by walking or doing mild exercise to get your blood flowing. If you are still feeling fatigued, try to get a 15-20-minute nap.
You could also use a caffeinated drink such as coffee or tea to give you an extra boost, but it is not recommended to drink more than two cups.
Always remember: it is your body, you know it best, so listen to the signals it sends you! Nothing is worth your or other people’s safety.
Super Ego Holding reminds you to be Super Cautious when driving and helps you to stay Super Safe!