How To Avoid Fatigue During a Long Trip

Fatigue is a significant contributor to many deadly vehicle accidents on our roadways. Many individuals believe that fatigued driving is just a problem for long-distance travelers. However, that's not the case.

Fatigue has an impact on all types of drivers. Remember that automobile drivers are often exhausted from long work hours, physically challenging activities, and lack of sleep. The dangers of driving when tired are apparent. Getting behind the wheel when fatigued might result in an accident, a severe injury, or even death.

As a result, drivers must learn strategies to avoid fatigue.

To avoid fatigue while driving, our team at Highway Hero Driving Academy presents some helpful tips:

#1 Make Sure You Get Enough Sleep

The night before your trip, try to get seven to eight hours of sleep. You'll likely feel sleepy and weary if you don't get enough sleep to begin your adventure. An accident would be more likely to happen if you didn't get enough sleep.

#2 Start Your Journey as Early in The Day as Possible

Your trip should begin within an hour after waking up. Your concentration is sharpest during this period. If you have a long journey ahead of you, avoid any heavy duties that might put you at risk of exhaustion.

#3 Maintain A Decent Posture

Keep your back straight, and your seat far enough forward to prevent your legs from totally stretching while driving. Furthermore, keep your chin up and your gaze forward at all times. After a few hours, any other position will leave you drained and worn out.

#4 Keep Yourself Awake

When you are bored, pump up the volume, switch stations regularly, and avoid soft, slow music. You'll be more vigilant if you're in a situation like this. In addition, avoid using the vehicle's cruise control; instead, keep your hands on the wheel at all times.

#5 Keep A Regular Schedule of Breaks

Long-distance drivers know the value of taking frequent breaks. Take a 20-minute break every three hours. You'll be able to get out and get some fresh air in your lungs. You won't have to take any breaks for the following three hours of your travel since you'll be awake and alert. Getting up and moving around causes your heart to beat quicker, which helps you stay awake.

#6 Do Not Eat Big Meals

Avoid big meals before a long drive since they may cause you to feel drowsy. Even if you're starving, try to limit your intake to something healthy. Making numerous pauses and eating small meals is preferable to indulging in a large meal.

#7 Make Use of Rest Area

Stop at a rest stop if you are tired and can't finish the remainder of your journey. You may take a quick snooze there before continuing on your journey. Driving to your destination when tired is very dangerous.

#8 Avoid Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is a significant contributor to drowsiness on the road. Having only one drink of alcohol is enough to make you drowsy.

If you want to be a safe driver, steer clear of alcohol. Furthermore, it would be best to never drive while intoxicated under any circumstances.

Sound Off

What are some other ways to avoid fatigue while driving? Let us know in the comments!