Fatigued driving can leave you nearly as impaired as driving under the influence. Recognizing the signs of fatigue is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
There are a few things to watch for that could indicate you are too fatigued to be safe behind the wheel:
Heavy eyes and persistent yawning
Excessive yawning and trouble keeping your eyes open are common signs of fatigue. If you find yourself yawning or struggling to stay alert, you should know that these symptoms can impair your reaction time and increase your risk of accidents.
Difficulty focusing
Safe driving requires full attention to the road, and any lapse in concentration can have serious consequences. Fatigue can compromise your ability to concentrate on the road. If you notice a lack of focus, frequent daydreaming or an inability to maintain a steady gaze, those challenges show that your mind is not in optimal condition for driving.
Impaired reaction time
Fatigue can significantly slow down your body’s reaction time. This puts you at risk of an accident if you cannot react to hazards quickly enough when you are behind the wheel. If your body feels fatigued enough that you are slow to respond to things around you, that indicates you are too fatigued for safe driving.
Recognizing the signs of fatigue can help you ensure your safety on the road. According to the CDC, an estimated 1 in 25 adults admit to falling asleep at the wheel in the last 30 days. Recognize when you are too tired to drive and stay off the road for your own well-being.