Feeling drowsy behind the wheel is more dangerous than many drivers realize. According to safety experts, drowsy driving is responsible for thousands of accidents every year, many of them serious or even fatal. Fatigue slows reaction times, reduces attention, and can impair your judgment in ways similar to alcohol. Knowing how to recognize drowsiness and what to do about it can help keep you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road safe.
Why Drowsy Driving Is So Dangerous
When you’re tired, your brain simply can’t process information as quickly or effectively. Your reflexes slow down, and your ability to focus diminishes.
In severe cases, drivers may even experience “micro-sleeps” — brief episodes of sleep that can last just a few seconds. At highway speeds, a few seconds is all it takes to drift out of your lane, miss a stop sign, or rear-end another vehicle.
Warning Signs You’re Too Tired to Drive
Many drivers convince themselves they can push through fatigue, but your body often gives you clear warning signs first:
- Frequent yawning or blinking.
- Difficulty keeping your eyes open or focused.
- Trouble remembering the last few miles driven.
- Drifting from your lane or hitting rumble strips.
- Missing exits or traffic signs.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a strong signal that you need to take action immediately.
What to Do If You Feel Drowsy
The safest option if you feel drowsy while driving is to pull over and rest. Find a safe place like a rest area, parking lot, or another quiet location to take a nap. Even a short nap of 15–20 minutes can make a significant difference in alertness.
If you’re on a long trip, consider switching drivers if possible. Sharing the driving responsibilities can help prevent fatigue from building up.
The Limits of “Stay Awake” Tricks
Some drivers rely on tricks like turning up the radio, opening the windows, or blasting the AC to stay awake. While these methods might make you feel temporarily more alert, they do not actually counteract the physical effects of fatigue.
Caffeine can help to some extent, but its effects are temporary and can’t replace the restorative power of sleep. If you choose to drink coffee or an energy drink, be aware that it can take approximately 30 minutes to take effect, and its effects may not last long enough to safely get you to your destination.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Fatigue
The best way to handle drowsiness is to prevent it in the first place. Before a long drive, make sure you get a full night’s sleep (7–9 hours for most adults). Avoid starting your trip at times when you would normally be asleep, such as late at night or very early in the morning.
Take breaks every two hours or 100 miles to stretch, walk around, and stay refreshed. These regular stops help break up the monotony of long drives and keep you more alert.
Consider Your Medications
Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause drowsiness as a side effect. Always read labels and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re unsure whether a medication could affect your driving ability.
If a medication does cause drowsiness, plan your trips accordingly or arrange for alternative transportation.
Drowsy Driving vs. Drunk Driving
Many people are surprised to learn that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Studies have shown that being awake for 18 hours straight impairs driving ability to a similar degree as a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%, and after 24 hours, it’s comparable to a BAC of 0.10% — above the legal limit in most states.
Trust Paul’s Automotive in Baltimore, MD
At Paul’s Automotive in Baltimore, MD, your safety is our top priority. While we specialize in keeping your vehicle in peak condition, we also believe in helping our customers stay safe behind the wheel. Fatigue can be just as much of a hazard as worn brakes or bald tires.
If you’re planning a long road trip, stop by for a pre-trip inspection to make sure your car is ready for the journey. And remember: no mechanical fix can replace a well-rested driver. If you feel drowsy while driving, pull over and rest — it might just save your life.