Being fatigued while driving is more than just yawning, let’s be honest. That has to do with those cunning little gremlins that appear when you least expect them. In one moment, you are tapping your fingers in time with the tunes. Your eyes then automatically close like window curtains. Weariness is like that: cunning, unyielding, and not at all agreeable. driver fatigue monitoring system australia
Get this. Every year, hundreds of collisions are caused by drowsy drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Not only nocturnal people. Long, tedious meetings or conference calls in the middle of the day can exhaust you more quickly than a smartphone in the sun. Air conditioning is the evil twin of sleep, and don’t even get me started on a carbohydrate-filled meal.
Have you noticed the signs? It’s not as easy as putting smoke in a jar. However, they are there, whether they be daydreaming, straying from your lane, having heavy eyelids, or abruptly waking up after missing an exit. Toughing it out will not get you anything. Get some coffee, stretch, or splash your face with cool water. Never assume that those indicators are harmless abnormalities.
It’s the same old story: “I’ll just get home.” I am doing fine. People tell themselves that before something negative occurs. Recall when at three in the morning, your pal Joe left for a road trip because “he’d had coffee?” He dozed off and awoke in a cornfield, his car still in good shape but his pride gone. Coffee is never a substitute for a good night’s sleep. Not at all, spoiler alert.
The topic of practical defense will now be discussed. Restart. While eight hours may seem like a lot, it’s preferable to sleep for six uninterrupted hours than toss and turn. Take turns driving, if at all possible. Sharing the wheel means sharing the responsibility. Every two hours, schedule a break. Who blinks first is not the object of this game.
Additionally, technology is useful. A number of cars make noises like irate parakeets when you go off the road. Make use of it. In order to avoid tedious, sluggish driving, use cruise control. Don’t allow technology to make you lazy, though. Ultimately, human responses continue to prevail.
Water’s a hidden hero. Water is a better option than that sugary pop. It helps you relax. Additionally, remember to breathe in some fresh air. Slide the window open. Play a selection of upbeat music. Sing along loudly if you have to, even if you’re not on key.
Companies can also contribute. Emphasize the negative effects of sleep debt. When employees claim to be exhausted, offer them a reward rather than a criticism. People who work shifts can improve their sleep quality by implementing flexible scheduling.
Driving late at night is not rewarded with awards. Exercise caution. Pay attention when your body urges you to take a break. Being a safe driver is a marathon, not a sprint. By being alert, you can prevent your next trip from being a terrifying experience. If Joe can learn it, so can we all.