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Signs You’re Too Tired To Drive

Driving requires your full attention and alertness. However, many drivers underestimate the risks associated with driving while drowsy. In 2022, 693 people died in drowsy-driving crashes in the U.S. In 2021, 1,155 people were injured due to driver fatigue in Missouri, and 15 lost their lives.

Recognizing the signs of fatigue and knowing when to pull over can save lives. At Cofman Townsley, our Missouri car accident lawyers stress the importance of this awareness to prevent accidents.

Watch Out for These Signs of Fatigue

Fatigued driving is a serious issue that contributes to road accidents. It’s comparable to driving under the influence of alcohol. Being awake for 18 hours can make you drive like you have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05, and after 24 hours, it’s like having a BAC of 0.10, higher than the legal limit.

Recognizing the signs of fatigue can help you decide whether to continue driving or take a break. Here are seven common symptoms to watch for while driving:

  1. Heavy Eyelids and Frequent Blinking: When you struggle to keep your eyes open or blink frequently, you’re too tired to drive. This condition indicates that your body is fighting hard to stay awake, impairing your ability to concentrate and safely operate a vehicle.
  2. Nodding Head: Catching yourself nodding off or noticing that your head is starting to droop repeatedly signals extreme drowsiness. This involuntary action reflects severe sleep deprivation, which can lead to brief losses of consciousness and increased accident risk.
  3. Frequent Yawning: Continuous yawning is your body’s natural mechanism to increase alertness and fight off sleepiness by boosting the oxygen supply to the brain. Frequent yawns may indicate fatigue, signaling that your alertness is compromised and that it might be time to take a break from driving.
  4. Drifting Between Lanes: If your vehicle starts drifting into other lanes or hitting rumble strips, fatigue is affecting your driving. This loss of control can diminish your driving precision, posing serious safety risks.
  5. Memory Lapses: Experiencing memory lapses, such as missing your exit or failing to recall the last few miles, suggests that your brain isn’t fully alert. Impaired alertness jeopardizes your ability to navigate safely.
  6. Difficulty Maintaining Speed: Variability in driving speed, whether too slow or too fast, often occurs due to drowsiness and its effect on your reaction time. Inconsistencies in speed indicate a lack of control, making driving unsafe.
  7. Irritability and Restlessness: Unusual irritability or restlessness is a telltale sign of fatigue. These emotional responses often mean your body and mind are struggling to remain awake and alert, reducing your effectiveness as a driver.

What to Do if You Get Drowsy on the Road

If you notice any symptoms of fatigue, take immediate action to protect yourself and others. Here’s what to do:

  • Pull Over Safely: As soon as you feel drowsy, find a safe place to pull over, such as a rest area or a parking lot. Taking a short nap, even for just 10-30 minutes, can refresh your alertness and ability to concentrate.
  • Drink Caffeine: Consume a cup of coffee or an energy drink for a temporary boost in alertness. Caffeine can help you stay awake long enough to find a safe place to rest if you’re feeling drowsy; however, it’s not a substitute for proper rest.
  • Switch Drivers: If you’re traveling with someone who feels more alert, switch drivers. Sharing driving responsibilities can improve safety by ensuring the most alert person is behind the wheel.
  • Avoid Heavy Meals: Eating a large, heavy meal can increase drowsiness as your body diverts blood from the brain to aid digestion. Opt for lighter snacks to maintain higher energy levels and alertness.
  • Use Rest Stops: Make it a habit to stop at rest stops every couple of hours. These breaks can help you stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and refresh yourself, which can help maintain your alertness and reduce fatigue.

Need Legal Help? Contact Us Today

Drowsy driving is a preventable cause of accidents. By recognizing the signs of fatigue and taking appropriate actions, you can protect yourself and others on the road.

If you’re hurt in a collision with a drowsy driver, our experienced auto accident lawyers can assist. We can explain your legal options and help you file a claim to compensate you for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact us today for a free consultation and get the support you need to secure the compensation you deserve.