For many South Africans, the festive season means a lot of time on the road – driving long distances to holiday destinations, or visiting family and friends in other parts of the country. Experts from Driving Skills for Life (DSFL), a comprehensive programme created by Ford Motor Company to promote a safe and efficient driving culture, warns that all this time spent behind the wheel, especially at night when you would normally be sleeping, increases the risk of drowsy driving. Drowsiness leads to impaired focus and reaction time, similar to the effects of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
DSFL Training Director Derek Kirkby says that one of the most important aspects to safe driving is anticipating the situation on the road. But this is hard to do if you are drowsy, especially if you are driving at night when visibility is poor. “You should be well-rested before setting off on a long trip,” says Kirby. “Don’t drive if you are sleep deprived, or on medication that may cause drowsiness."
Monitor yourself, or the driver of the vehicle you’re travelling in, for the following signs of drowsiness:
- Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
- Trouble remembering the last few kilometres driven, or missing exits or traffic signs
- Trouble keeping your head up
- Drifting from your lane, tailgating, or hitting a shoulder rumble strip
- Feeling restless, in a rush, and irritable
Derek Kirby also adds: "Avoid using quick fixes like energy drinks, turning up the radio, or opening a window, to try and stay awake. They don’t work. Rather make regular stops to stretch, walk around a bit, and get some fresh air.”
