Have you heard about the dangers of drowsy driving? If not, read this post by Syntex Lubricants in Kyle to learn the causes, symptoms, and ways to avoid feeling tired or sleepy behind the wheel.

Sleepiness behind the wheel poses significant risks for drivers; therefore, it's essential to learn and share leading measures to prevent it. To better understand the importance of this topic, it's worth pointing out that, according to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 697 drowsy driving-related fatalities in 2019. The good news is that there are many ways you can prevent feeling tired and sleepy while driving. Hence, this post by Syntex Lubricants will guide you through the factors that can cause you drowsiness while driving, the symptoms you should be aware of, and essential tips to avoid fatigue while driving.

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Factors contributing to drowsy driving

No driver seeks to feel tired while driving; therefore, it is essential to point out and avoid the circumstances that precede drowsy driving; to that end, here are the most frequent causes of sleepiness behind the wheel:

• Not getting enough sleep: As you might imagine, it's not a good idea to hit the road or drive for long hours after a sleepless night. In general, lack of sleep can decrease your sense of alertness, decision-making skills, and reaction times. Of course, following this advice can be tricky if you cannot sleep due to, let's say, having a health condition, having a baby that wakes up every 3 hours to eat, or any other inevitable circumstance. If this is the case, make sure to have a traveling companion with whom you can share the driving duty.
• Alcohol: As apparent as it may be, it's essential to always keep in mind that mixing alcohol and speed is highly dangerous. The side effects of alcohol are very similar to the symptoms of drowsiness; therefore, driving under the influence can impair your driving coordination, judgment, concentration, and reflexes. All in all, make sure to avoid consuming alcohol whenever you have to drive.
• Medication: The side effects of over-the-counter or prescription drugs are also important to consider before driving. After all, some medicines are formulated with sedatives; therefore, taking them before driving may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased cognitive functioning. All in all, be sure to check the side effects of any medications you take before driving.
• Night driving: Obviously, you are more likely to experience drowsiness at the wheel if you drive during your usual sleeping hours, which is why night driving can be so dangerous. If you ever find yourself having to get behind the wheel at night, be sure to share the driving with another person and be alert to the drowsiness symptoms listed below.

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Watch for Warning Signs of Drowsiness

Whether you have a long road trip ahead of you, your job involves long hours of driving, or you've had a few hours of sleep, take note of the following tired driving warning signs:

• You yawn more frequently.
• Your back feels tense.
• You find it hard to keep your eyes wide open.
• Suddenly, your thoughts become wandering.
• You start to miss traffic signs and signals.

The first symptoms of driving fatigue can be insidious; however, it's important to recognize them early to manage them accordingly and avoid falling into a potential drowsiness-related crash. For example, if you start yawning, your back suddenly feels tense, and your eyes become heavy, make sure you stop your vehicle in the first rest area or parking lot you find to sleep for at least 20 minutes.

How to Prevent Drowsy Driving

Finally, we have prepared a list of preventive measures you can take to avoid drowsiness at the wheel. Always bear these tips in mind to guarantee your safety on the road:

• Prioritize to have at least 7 hours of sleep before driving for long hours.
• On long trips, take breaks every two hours.
• If possible, travel accompanied.
• Share the driving hours with your traveling companion.
• If possible, don't drive during your hours of maximum drowsiness.
• Never drink alcohol before driving.
• If you have insomnia or another sleep disorder, talk to your doctor to find a treatment that will allow you to drive safely without symptoms of drowsiness.

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