Sleep, take a cat’s nap, by all means, but not when you are at the wheel. Feeling
drowsy, Fatigued, or just tired ? stop the vehicle at the nearest safe spot and refresh
your self. It’s good for you as well as others. A majority of the road accidents at
night on our highways and especially the single vehicle crashes happen due to the drivers
catching up on their sleep while at the wheel.
It is
not possible to document an accident caused by falling asleep at the wheel. No one would
admit as much, provided he survives such a crash. But if we were honest enough with
ourselves, it would not be difficult to recall when we fell asleep, at least momentarily,
while driving? There is nothing strange about it. The body needs regular rest after the
hectic and strenuous activity throughout the day. There is no point in pushing ourselves
to an extreme where it endangers others and us.
Dozing off while at the wheel is unpredictable and sudden.
As a result, the consequences of an accident in such a situation are likely to be more
serious and more tragic. This is because the driver is not able to take any evasive action
to reduce the impact of the accident. A nap may last only for a few seconds but those few
seconds can be unimaginably crucial. A car travelling at a speed of 55 miles per hour can
cover the full length of a football field just in four seconds. It is not only dozing off
or napping a while during driving that can cause an accident, but even a simple ailment
like cold and headache can also affect our driving and thus our safety.
To remain alert on the wheel, it is important to be fit not
only physically but mentally as well. Any disturbance, either physical or mental always
gives signals, only we should be able to recognise them. Wandering and disconnected
thoughts, loss of concentration, frequent yawning, stiffness in the body all are symptoms
of physical and mental fatigue. In such a situation it is necessary that we either stop
driving or ask someone else who is fit both physically and mentally to drive.
What actually causes physical, mental and emotional fatigue
in a person? Any disturbance in the regular schedule of a person can cause physical and
mental stress. Lack of congenial atmosphere at home or place of work can also contribute
to fatigue and stress. The body requires sufficient energy, rest and exercise for its
smooth functioning. A major contributory factor causing fatigue can be TV viewing, all
these result in fatigue at the wheel. Sometimes long monotonous lone driving can also
contribute to drowsiness due to boredom.
How to overcome this problem? Have regular habits. Remember
drinking and driving do not mix. Set your life style to your body rhythms and your
professional routine. Try to restrict your driving to daylight only. Avoid heavy meals at
night in case you are likely to drive at night. Avoid coffee and heavy meals before going
to bed. Stop at frequent intervals and relax to refresh your body and mind. Before driving
out on a long journey have a good and sound sleep. If you are going on a long drive, it is
better to take a companion with you.
TIPS TO STAY ALERT AT THE WHEEL:
- Beware that you can fall asleep, while driving, irrespective
of the duration of the drive.
- Prevention is the best policy; let someone else drive for
you, if you are feeling sleepy.
- Always have a companion with you if possible.
- If you are driving alone and feeling sleepy, stop at the
nearest safe spot and relax.
- Do not ignore thirst or call of nature.
- Say NO to alcohol before you embark on a drive.
- Ensure sound and restful sleep before you begin a long
drive.
- Limit your drive to day light, as for as possible.
- Don’t try to exert beyond your physical limits.
- When not driving be consistent in your habits.
- Use fresh fruits and vegetables instead of snacks during the
journey.
