It’s no secret that driving while intoxicated in Athens, GA is extremely dangerous, but did you know that driving drowsy is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated? Although the effects of driving while drowsy vary from person to person, most fatigued drivers often experience short-term loss of memory and have slower reaction times while behind the wheel. Here are a few of the causes of drowsy driving and how to avoid driving while drowsy.

Common Causes of Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving, also known as driver fatigue, occurs when someone is too fatigued to safely drive a motor vehicle, which in turn puts them, their passengers and others on the road in danger. Some of the most common causes of drowsy driving include:

• Consuming drugs and/or alcohol
• Using sleep aids or sedatives before driving
• Lack of or interrupted sleep
• Sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or chronic insomnia
• Working a schedule that affects your amount of sleep or the circadian rhythm
• Driving for long periods without stopping for sufficient rest

Who’s at Risk for Drowsy Driving?

Although every driver is susceptible to driving drowsy, some groups are considered to be at a higher risk for drowsy driving, including:

• Young drivers between the ages of 18-29
• Commercial drivers
• Late evening and overnight shift workers
• Business travelers
• People with sleep disorders

How to Prevent Drowsy Driving

There are several preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of being involved in a collision resulting from driving drowsy, including:

• Get plenty of sleep before getting behind the wheel
• Travel with another driver
• Use rest stops
• Use of caffeine (will provide energy, but not a replacement for sleep)
• Chew gum (stimulates senses)
• Open the car windows to get fresh air
• Listen to music
• Drive during the day whenever possible
• Don’t hesitate to stop for the night to sleep

Understanding your warning signs is critical in preventing a collision resulting from drowsy driving. For instance, if you are yawning, blinking frequently, or missing traffic signals, it is a sure sign that you need to stop and rest. Driving drowsy can result in a collision, and these types of collisions are often as serious as those that occur as a result of driving while intoxicated. If you are interested in learning more about the risks relating to drowsy driving, contact Hyman Brown Insurance Agency, Inc.

Residents of Athens, GA who want to learn more information about their current insurance policy or to upgrade your current policy, contact Hyman Brown Insurance Agency, Inc.