Be Aware of the Onset of Driver Fatigue
Highways, July 2001

Imagine this: You're driving along, watching the miles click away, when suddenly your head jerks.  You have just dozed off because you suffered from driver fatigue.  It not only causes accidents, it can be deadly.  These tips may save you from disaster.

• Rest before traveling; don't leave late in the day.
• Drive with a passenger and take turns; keep the conversation going.
• Avoid long drives at night.
• Keep your vehicle's ambient temperature cool.
• Turn the radio up and switch stations often.
• Avoid cruise control.
• Sit up straight, with your legs flexed at a 45-degree angle.
• Stop at least every two hours to stretch.
• Don't drink alcohol.
• Wear sunglasses during the day to flight glare.
• Chew gum, talk and/or sing

If you're still fatigued, drive to the nearest campsite or well-lit parking space (hospital, church, Walmart) and sleep until you can reach a safe place to spend the night.

I drive down and back to Florida each November and listen to audio books while on the road, which are a great help.  Cracker Barrel, Travel America and Flying J truck plazas rent tapes which can be turned in further on down the road after you've enjoyed them.