For your safety, the safety of your passengers, and those you share the road with, it is important that you stay focused and alert. This is especially important when you are taking a long road trip since driving long distances can be exhausting, and it can be easy to get distracted or drowsy. There are some things you can do to staying alert when taking road trips. To ensure that you and your passengers arrive safely, there are some techniques for keeping your head in the game.
Top 12 Tips for Staying Alert On Your Extended Road Trips
If you are driving a long distance, for your safety’s sake, you must stay sharp and alert. Here are some techniques for staying alert on long road trips:
- Rest, rest, and rest some more. Make sure that you are not in a sleep deficit when you hit the road. Not only will you have more fun, but you will also stay safer. Driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Rest before the trip and refrain from driving when you are sleepy.
- For every two hours that you drive, take a break. Get out of the car, stretch, walk around a bit, and enjoy some fresh air. You should always take a break every one hundred miles or every two hours, whichever comes first.
- Hydration is so important. If you are dehydrated, you could easily become fatigued. So, drink lots of water and avoid drinking caffeinated or heavily sweetened drinks as they cause dehydration.
- Light, healthy road trip snacks are a must. Eating heavy, greasy foods may leave you feeling sluggish.
- While overly loud music is considered by most to be a distraction, you might consider listening to an audiobook or podcast. An engaged mind is an alert mind.
- To wake yourself up when you are feeling drowsy, open your windows, and use the air conditioner or the heater to ensure your car is at an appropriate temperature.
- Your sense of smell is the key to staying focused and alert. Peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary, and citrus are all essential oils that help you remain more cautious.
- Participating in road trips games can trick your brain into staying alert. Spotting license plates, playing “Eye-spy,” or looking for a particular color car can keep you from getting sleepy.
- If you can switch drivers regularly, it is better for you and your passengers. Share the responsibility of driving when you need a break.
- Listen to your favorite songs and sing along. Rolling the windows down and singing loudly is one of the best parts of most road trips. But keep your eyes on the road while you do.
- Practice good posture. Sit up straight, take deep breaths, put your shoulders back, and frequently adjust so that you can release some of the tension you carry in your back, neck, and shoulders.
- Have a good conversation with your travel companions. Talk about your problems, laugh about good memories and dreams for the future. Anything that keeps you awake and focused.
Enjoy Your Road Trip
If you have any trouble along the way, call a Charleston, WV, car accident attorney with Salango Law. We will protect your rights and guide you through the legal process surrounding an automobile accident.
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