People sometimes drive when they are sleepy and really should not be driving. Drunk drivers or those high on drugs are to blame for some accidents, but many crashes may be the result of drowsy drivers. It’s difficult to quantify as there is no measurable test for drowsiness as there is for alcohol. As a driver, think before you drive if you are feeling very tired, and make sure to keep your auto insurance in Tampa up-to-date in case of an accident.

People drive while drowsy for several reasons. Some are business travelers suffering from jetlag. Commercial truck drivers often push the limit by driving when they should be resting. Shift workers, especially those not used to the hours are more than likely to drive while sleepy.

Get familiar with drowsy warning signs. Repeated yawning and wandering thoughts are indicators of sleepiness. Losing concentration on the road is another warning sign. Erratic driving, failing to stop at stop signs or weaving across the lanes are obvious signs of a lack of sleep.

Scheduling rest stops every 100 miles on long trips is a good way to prevent sleepiness. Plan enough time for sleeping the night before a long driving trip. Take frequent breaks. Get out of the car and stretch your legs. Get a caffeinated drink or some fresh water while taking a break from driving. Plan your driving route to include some rest stops for a refreshing nap.

Plan to sleep in a motel and rest on long trips. Do not become another statistic because of driving while drowsy. Don’t forget that driving safely not only might save your life and that of others, it may give you the added benefit of fewer claims on your auto insurance in Tampa policy, which may in turn help keep the cost of your insurance from increasing. 

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