Even if you\u2019ve had some sleep, it may not be enough. The survey found just 50% of adults are likely to avoid driving when they haven\u2019t gotten the sleep they need, but almost 90% of adults are likely to avoid driving when they\u2019ve had a few drinks. More people have urged someone not to drive because of drinking than for being too sleepy or tired. However, if you haven\u2019t had enough quality sleep to drive alert, it\u2019s not safe for you to be behind the wheel.<\/p>\n
Drowsy driving is impaired driving. As part of its continued commitment to educate the public about the importance of sleep for health and well-being, NSF produces Drowsy Driving Prevention Week\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> every year to encourage everyone to Sleep First. Drive Alert.\u00ae<\/sup> Here’s a short list of things you can do before you get behind the wheel.<\/p>\n Prioritize Sleep Ahead of Your Drive<\/strong><\/p>\n It is important to get the recommended amount of sleep the night before your trip. While the feeling of a good night’s sleep varies from person to person, NSF recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults and eight to 10 hours for teens.<\/p>\n Bring a Buddy: Plan to Have a Companion for Your Longer Trips<\/strong><\/p>\n A companion passenger can not only help look for early warning signs of driver fatigue or sleepiness but can also help with driving when needed. A good driving co-pilot is someone who stays awake to talk to you and will be aware of your alertness. They can be particularly helpful on long trips. As you plan your next adventure, consider inviting along a driving buddy or two to make your trip safer and more memorable.<\/p>\n Proper Planning: Schedule Regular Stops for Your Trip<\/strong><\/p>\n Plan a stop every 100 miles or two hours during your driving trip. Stops help you stay alert by giving you a chance to check your alertness, stretch, or rest a bit if you need to. Schedule some stops that are meaningful to you in addition to your necessary breaks. For instance, you could stop by a park for a quick stretch or walk along a scenic path before hitting the road again.<\/p>\n Look Out for the Signals of Drowsy Driving<\/strong><\/p>\n Be aware of the warning signs that come with drowsy driving. Frequent blinking and yawning or having difficulty with lane and speed control are common signs that you may be too tired to drive. A companion driver can help keep an eye on the warning signs of drowsy driving, too. Remember: a drowsy driving crash can happen in just seconds. If you notice these warning signs, take action \u2014 pull over to a safe place and take a quick nap.<\/p>\n NSF has more science-backed recommendations to help anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self\u00ae<\/sup><\/a>. It\u2019s the place to start and can make a big difference to help avoid drowsy driving. There are simple things you can do every day and night to help you get enough of the quality sleep you need.<\/p>\n During the day, things like spending time in bright, natural light, getting regular exercise and eating meals at consistent times can help your body prepare for sleep. At night, NSF recommends avoiding things like heavy meals, caffeine and alcohol, keeping a wind-down routine, and sleeping in a place that\u2019s cool, dark, and quiet \u2014 which also means putting your screen devices away an hour before bed.<\/p>\n![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/www.brandpointcontent.com\/images\/60dfaa31-6dd4-417f-92d4-e3e116aa8850.jpg\")
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