7 things drivers need to know to fight drowsiness while driving

It can be said that, due to many reasons, driving after a long period of fatigue is always a dangerous situation. According to the results announced by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 20% of accidents and 12% of "near-accidents" are due to drivers falling asleep while driving on the road.

Below are ways to help drivers overcome drowsiness, help drivers drive safely and handle situations in the best way.

1. Get enough and deep sleep before driving

“The best way to prevent drowsiness is to get enough sleep.” Adults need about 7 hours of deep sleep every day. If one of these two factors is lacking, it can be considered sleep deprivation.

2. Pull over and sleep for 15 minutes

15 minutes is the minimum time for a nap. Just a quick 15-minute nap will give your brain a rest, and after waking up you will find your body has been "recharged" at least 50% "battery", continuing the journey.

3. Get off the bus, drink water, wash your face, go to the toilet

When tired, the body itself will demand rest. After 2 hours of continuous driving, the driver should stop and get out of the car, then continue driving. According to some health experts, you should not drive continuously for 4 hours. Because at that time the brain is overworked, the body is no longer able to concentrate.

In the situation of driving alone, experts recommend that when feeling sleepy, the driver should get out of the car, wash his face and go to the toilet. This can make you surprisingly awake, very effective when tired.

4. Keep the cabin cool

Keeping the cabin cool and ventilated will help drivers feel more comfortable and avoid drowsiness. Open the windows to let some fresh air in. This is especially good if the cabin is hot and it’s cold outside. Like diving into cold water, the cold air will help you stay alert.

5. Practice some simple movements

At each break, drivers should practice some simple stretching exercises for 10-15 minutes. This helps to relax the mind and make the body healthier, limiting some diseases of the joints of the hands, feet and neck... It is extremely important for drivers to be aware of their health, good habits will gradually form better drivers.

6. Avoid using sedatives, alcohol, and beer

Perhaps, this is something that is always especially noted. The use of anti-drowsiness drugs is now banned. Alcohol and beer are also stimulants that inhibit the central nervous system, people who drink alcohol are often not sober enough. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to not drink alcohol or beer before driving.

7. Use some support products

- Drink a cup of coffee or use caffeinated products:Coffee and tea are drinks that help you stay awake while working, and are also effective solutions to prevent drowsiness. However, continuous use during long journeys can make the body too tired, even if you do not fall asleep, the driver still cannot concentrate, leading to accidents.

- Chew gum or suck on candy:The movement of your jaw muscles will help you feel less tired. In combination with chewing gum and sucking on candy, sit up straight and try to move your eyes more.