We’ve all done this. We need to get to our final destination and we are tired. We’ve had several cups of coffee or an energy drink and we are still having trouble keeping our eyes open while driving. Unfortunately, this is also one of the highest causes for accidents on the highways – driving while drowsy. This is one of the biggest issues facing truckers and all drivers today.
There are many things that can be done to avoid accidents caused because the driver is sleepy. When a driver is starting to feel dozy they can open a window to get fresh, cool air in the vehicle, they can turn up a radio to faster music, they can drink a caffeinated beverage to give them an energy boost and they can stop the car and stretch their legs to get the circulation flowing again. But, the best scenario is to not drive when tired. Getting adequate rest before driving is the best remedy to driving while sleepy.
In fact, to prevent driving while tired, the Department of Transportation has regulations in place that limit the amount of driving a commercial driver can do in one day. The Hours-of-Service regulations put limits in effect for when and how far commercial motor vehicle drivers can drive. These regulations are based on scientific reviews and are designed to make sure truck drivers get the needed rest to perform safe vehicle operations. The restrictions are based on whether the vehicle is carrying passengers or strictly property. However, the restrictions do instruct the maximum number of hours they can drive, and how much rest is needed before driving again. Regulations such as these ensure that commercial vehicle drivers operate their vehicles safely.
Another problem facing all drivers is the problem of sleep disorders. Many drivers suffer from medical problems that prevent them from staying awake or prevent them from having a restful sleep at night. Disorders such as Sleep Apnea, Insomnia, Sleep Disturbance and Narcolepsy are all problems that can have an impact on driver’s ability to stay awake.
To understand the problems of driving while tired, please refer to the following resources:
- Drowsy Driving – Healthy Sleep Video
- Drowsy Driving Prevention Tips
- Wake Up to the Risks of Drowsy Driving
- Tips and Facts About Fatigued Driving
- Tips For Avoiding Drowsiness and Fatigued Driving
- The Facts About Driving Risks
- Driving Fatigue Prevention
- Driver Fatigue: Safety Tips and Information
- Motor Carrier and Driver Laws
- Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators and the Law
- Federal Motor Carriers Hours of Service Regulations
- DOT Driver Alertness and Fatigue Summary
- Hours of Service Regulations
- Hours of Service PowerPoint Presentation
- Interstate Truck Drivers Guide to Hours of Service
- Common Sleep Disorders
- National Center on Sleep Disorders Research
- Sleep and Sleep Disorders
- Sleep, Sleep Disorders and Aging
- Drowsy Driving: Detection and Prevention
- Sleep Apnea Crash Risk Study
- Study: The Prevalence of Sleep Apnea With Commercial Truck Drivers
- Truck Driver Safety and Health
- The Sleep of Long Haul Truck Drivers
- Sleep Disorders Information and Treatment
- Sleep Apnea Treatments
