Why You Need to Avoid Driving When You are Tired

December 16th, 2012  |  Auto Insurance

When it comes to safe driving, most of the attention is focused on reducing the instances of driving under the influence and distracted driving. While each of these topics deserves extensive attention, there is another topic that often gets overlooked, but is just as important when it comes to safe driving practices. This topic is drowsy driving.

Lack of sleep has a significant impact on a person’s ability to function properly. Just like any other activity, when you lack sleep, it can impact your ability to be an effective driver.

Driving when tired can lead to a number of issues:

• It can reduce your ability to pay attention to the road
• It can reduce your reaction time
• It can reduce your ability to concentrate
• It can lead to poor driving decisions
• Most importantly, you could fall asleep while driving

The truth is that most people, even though they may admit they are tired, don’t think that being tired is that big of an issue. However, if you do feel tired, think about the following to assess your ability to drive:

• Did you sleep enough the night before?
• Are you planning on driving a long distance? Will you take breaks?
• Do you have another person to share the driving with you?
• Do you suffer from sleeping related issues such as insomnia?
• Are you planning on driving at night?
• Do you work long hours? Odd shifts? Lots of overtime?

All of these factors can impact your ability to drive. So, if you are feeling tired and planning on driving, think twice before you get in the car. It is always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to driving.