Stay Awake Behind the Wheel

How to stay alert

Try these tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Never drink and drive. Alcohol reduces your driving ability and worsens tiredness. It's also illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol.

• If possible, don’t drive long distances alone. If you have a companion on your drive, you’ll have someone to talk with. Plus you can take turns driving.

• Get enough shut-eye. You’re more likely to nod off at the wheel if you have slept for less than 8 hours the night before.

• Don’t begin a trip so late that you’re driving when you usually sleep. Start when you’re fresh and alert.

• Watch your posture. Hold your head up and don’t slouch.

• Take a break at least every 2 hours. Stop in a place that is safe and well-populated to walk around and stretch.

• Have 2 cups of a caffeinated drink like coffee, if you can have caffeine.

Signs of sleepiness

You may be about to doze off if you:

• Can’t remember the last few miles you drove.

• Have wandering or disconnected thoughts.

• Have trouble focusing or keeping your eyes open.

• Have trouble keeping your head up.

• Drift from your lane or hit a rumble strip.

• Yawn repeatedly.

In these cases, it’s very important to pull over to a safe place. Turn off your car, lock your doors, and nap for 15 to 20 minutes in a busy, well-lit rest area or truck stop. You’ll wake up refreshed and ready to reach your destination safely.