Safe-Driver Tips

1.      Drive thoroughly refreshed: Sleep or nap before starting a long trip

2.      Schedule breaks (nap, stretch, walk, etc.):

·        every 2 hrs

·        every 100 miles

·        if feel too tired to drive

·        during drowsy early-morning hours (1-5 a.m.)

·        during drowsy mid-afternoon hours (1-5 p.m.)

3.      Keep mind alert:

·        ensure air is fresh

·        listen to "talk" radio

·        chat with passengers

·        don't rely on caffeine (in pills, colas, coffee) to keep you alert — its effects last only a short while

4.      Rest only at authorized Rest Stops: Interstate road shoulders are for emergencies only

5.      Wake a prospective co-driver at least a half-hour before needed, to prevent "sleep inertia" (the urge to fall back asleep)

6.      Abstain from drinking alcohol within four hours of driving, because:

·        alcohol exaggerates the effects of fatigue

·        even one drink can have dramatic effects on a tired person

7.      Stop driving if you demonstrate any of the following DANGER SIGNS of drowsiness:

·        eyes that close or go out of focus by themselves

·        continual yawning, blinking, or head nodding

·        wandering, disconnected thoughts and inability to concentrate

·        slowed decision-making ability

·        inability to remember driving the last few miles

·        weaving and drifting out of your lane

·        variable speeds and more intermittent braking

·        grinding gears and erratic shifting

·        driving over a shoulder rumble strip more than twice