Long journeys can be exciting adventures, offering drivers a chance to explore new places and create lasting memories.
However, they can also be physically and mentally draining, leading to driver fatigue - especially if you've had a busy day.
Ensuring you stay alert and refreshed is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
In this blog, we will share tips and strategies to help you avoid driving fatigue, maintain focus, and make your journey as safe as possible.
We discuss:
The first thing you should do before embarking on a long drive is plan it out. Start by mapping out your route and identify rest stops, fuel stations, and places to eat.
You should aim to stop for at least a 15-minute break every two hours. In the break, stretch your legs, hydrate, and take your mind off the journey.
Like before any big day, ensure you get a good night's sleep before a long journey. Try to get at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep to ensure you're well-rested.
If you don't get enough sleep and start your journey tired, you are at a significant risk of fatigue.
Staying hydrated and eating well is essential to maintaining your energy levels no matter what you're doing. On a long drive, keep a supply of water and healthy snacks like fruit and granola bars.
Try to avoid sugary and high-fat foods as they can make you feel sluggish and can lead you to drive tired.
Taking regular breaks is crucial for avoiding fatigue when behind the wheel. Stop every two hours to take a break, stretch your legs, and rest your eyes.
A common question is: why does driving make you tired? Well, it's because you're sitting for an extended period, which lowers your heart rate. Taking a break and doing light exercise or a short walk prevents this from happening.
It's also vital if you're driving in a dull part of the world. If there's nothing to see except fields, it can lead you to get tired of driving. Taking a break can help prevent this.
If possible, share the driving responsibilities with another driver. Switching regularly can help prevent fatigue and give each other a chance to rest and recharge. The other person can also look out for any visible signs of fatigue.
Also, sharing the journey with someone else provides opportunities for conversation, which can help prevent fatigue.
Keeping your mind active is an excellent method to offset fatigue from driving. With most cars having loads of connected tech, use the long drive to listen to an engaging podcast, audiobook, or upbeat music.
Avoid anything too soothing or monotonous, which will increase driver tiredness.
Recognising the warning signs of driver fatigue is crucial for your safety, which includes yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting out of your lane, and difficulty concentrating.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential that you pull over and take a break.
Although the roads might be much quieter at night, don't plough on into the early hours of the morning. It's the time when you'd usually be asleep, and as your body knows this, it reacts accordingly.
We'd recommend stopping for the night before midnight.
There's no denying that long journeys can be challenging, but with genuine preparation and awareness, you can avoid driver tiredness and ensure a safe trip.
By planning your journey, getting a good night's sleep, staying hydrated, and taking regular breaks, you'll be well on your way to keeping yourself and other road users safe.
Remember, safety is paramount, so if you feel yourself suffering from fatigue and falling asleep while driving, ensure you take the correct preventative measures.
Looking for more road safety advice? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produces a range of comprehensive motoring guides, such as Driving While on the Phone and the Guide to Driving on the Motorway.
We are one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers, offering a range of car and van leasing deals. Whether you're looking for a hot hatchback or a practical van for your business, we'll be happy to help.
For more information, call us on 0345 811 9595 or check out our latest leasing deals.
