by Vilie Farah

Created on: January 21, 2010   Last Updated: September 28, 2010

Night-time driving could put your will to the test. Even if you have perfect self-control, being deprived of sleep will affect reflexes and your ability to control the urge to doze off.

According to some surveys, 2.3 million US drivers have admitted that they doze off while driving. The National Sleep Foundation reported that at least 100 000 accidents happened within one year as a result of tired drivers falling asleep behind the wheel.

Some basic tips will help you control the situation. You can prevent falling asleep at the wheel in order to guarantee your personal safety and the security of passengers riding alongside.

SIGNALS THAT YOU ARE DOZING OFF
Your body will show you if it is too tired and you could eventually lose control. Some little signs will help you determine whether you have the ability to continue driving or whether you should take a short break.

If you yawn often and have difficulty concentrating on the road, you could be dozing off very soon. The same could happen if you have difficulties recalling driving in the past half an hour or if you accidentally lose control over the car for a second.

If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms, you need to undertake some actions immediately. Otherwise you might soon fall asleep behind the wheel.

STOP AND TAKE A SHORT NAP IN THE CAR
The best option is to stop the car and to take a nap.

A 20-minute nap is equal to several cups of coffee. It will clarify your mind and increase your concentration.

Even if you are in a hurry, taking a 30-minute break will not put you way behind schedule. A short nap is the most effective strategy, especially if you are driving without a companion.

TRAVEL TOGETHER WITH A SECOND DRIVER
If you know that you are about to start a long trip, that involves overnight driving, refrain from going alone.

A partner in the car will help you stay focused while driving and will replace you if you feel too tired to continue. A friend, your spouse or a relative will certainly agree to do you that favor. Having someone as a travel companion can often save you from an accident that could have serious consequences.

DRINK A CUP OF COFFEE
If you are expecting a long car trip, have some good rest the night before. Refrain from undertaking major work projects the days before.

Have a nutritious meal before you get in the car, food will provide you with the energy you will need for the trip.

If you feel the desire to drink a cup of coffee, stop and get out of the car. The organism needs some time to absorb caffeine, you will not feel its effects immediately.

NEVER RELY ON QUESTIONABLE STAY AWAKE PRACTICES
Some tips that are taken for granted will not do the trick if you are too tired. You have probably heard that turning the radio on will help you concentrate better on the road. This claim is false.

The same applies to opening the car window. It might make you feel refreshed and awake for a short period of time but the effect is not going to be long-lasting. The best option is to stop and take a break before something bad happens.

CAN NEW TECHNOLOGIES HELP YOU?
Some car manufacturers are already designing technologies that will help you in the process of staying awake while driving.

Mercedes Benz is currently designing its face detection software that can determine whether the driver is awake or dozing off. Toyota and several other Japanese car makers are modifying car seats. The new seats will be equipped with pressure sensors. These will be able to detect pulse and breathing rate, thus calculating how tired the driver is.

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