06/02/2025
A CRITICAL POST VACATION REMINDER - DON'T DRIVE DROWSY As summer travel ramps up, it's vital to spotlight a serious, often overlooked risk that many face when returning from vacation: drowsy driving. While it’s common to feel tired after an action-packed getaway, getting behind the wheel without adequate rest can have deadly consequences. 🚨 Why It Matters: 1 in 25 adult drivers have admitted to falling asleep while driving within the past 30 days. Drowsy driving is a factor in 21% of fatal car crashes (AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety). Sleep deprivation can impair driving as much as alcohol — 24 hours without sleep = BAC of 0.10%. 🧠 How Fatigue Impacts Driving: Judgment and decision-making, Awareness of surroundings, Motor skills and coordination, and Risk of “microsleeps” — a few seconds of unconsciousness that can be fatal at highway speeds. 🕒 When You're Most at Risk: 2 a.m. – 6 a.m. (early morning fatigue) & 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. (afternoon slump tied to circadian rhythms). ⚠️ Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore: Can’t recall the last few miles driven, Frequent yawning or eye rubbing, Lane drifting, inconsistent speed, or missing exits, Heavy eyelids, head bobbing, frustration, or restlessness. ✅ What To Do If You’re Drowsy Behind the Wheel: Stop and take a 20–30 minute nap in a safe location, Drink coffee (200mg caffeine) after your nap for a short-term alertness boost, Get moving — stretch or take a walk to increase alertness, and Don’t force it — consider getting a ride, booking a motel, or calling someone to drive you 💤 Long-Term Prevention: Maintain consistent sleep habits and don’t skimp on rest — even on vacation. Takeaway: Vacations should be relaxing, but coming home safely is the real priority. Don’t let drowsy driving be the last leg of your trip. You can find the full article HERE.
Feeling tired after your trip? There's one thing to be aware of before you head home.