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37% of People Have Fallen Asleep While Driving – Remember These 12 tips to Stay Safe

37% of people have fallen asleep while driving. On top of that, 60% of people have driven while tired, 13% report falling asleep while driving at least once a month and 4% have caused crashes by driving while tired. These incidents don’t just happen on long road trips – it can be when you’re driving home from a long day at work; maybe you didn’t sleep well and are tired driving to work early in the morning. It’s important to be aware of any fatigue and address it before it causes a crash.

With the shorter winter days coming our way, keep these nighttime driving tips in mind to keep you awake, alert and safe.

 

5 Tips for Driving in the Dark:

  • Make sure you have clean headlights and windshield; debris on the headlights or windshield can make it harder to see at night;
  • Look away from oncoming lights;
  • If needed, wear glasses and ensure your glasses are anti-reflective;
  • Dim your dashboard lights; if they are too bright, they can be distracting; and
  • Slow down and allow additional time for stopping.

 

4 Tips for Driving in the Dark during Rush Hour:

  • Slow down and be patient; we know you want to get home but we want you to get there safely;
  • Avoid excessive passing and be alert to other cars who may dart in and out of lanes;
  • Avoid cruise control and stay alert; driving the same route every day can become routine but force yourself to stay alert and active as you drive; and
  • Avoid distractions; try to look at a map ahead of time, rather than while you’re driving; avoid your phone, eating or drinking. Distractions can be even worse when driving in traffic in the dark.

 

3 Tips for Long Distance Driving in the Dark:

  • Get at least 7 hours of sleep and avoid driving if you have been awake for 24 hours or more;
  • Stop, stretch and rest every 2 hours; and
  • Travel only during times that you are usually awake.

Despite the fact that we only drive in the dark one-quarter of the time, 50% of traffic fatalities happen at night. Remember these tips and follow them to keep you, your family and other drivers safe.