11/03/2025
Daylight Saving Time ends November 2. As we turn our clocks an hour earlier, it’s also the start of Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, November 2-8, in the US. This annual campaign raises awareness of the dangers of driving while sleep-deprived, encouraging people to get adequate rest to avoid accidents on the road.
The Dangers: You are three times more likely to be in an accident if you are fatigued, and crashes are the leading cause of workplace deaths. Drowsiness reduces the driver’s response time and ability to react. It also causes decreased awareness, tunnel vision, wandering thoughts, and shortened attention spans.
The Signs: Signals that you may be drowsy on the road include trouble keeping your eyes open or your head up, frequent yawning, drifting off the road or out of your lane, changes in speed, tailgating, and missing traffic signals.
What to Do: If you feel drowsy while driving, pull over to a safe place, rest, stretch, and/or drink a caffeinated beverage. Wait to resume driving until you feel alert and refreshed.
Tips to Sleep Better: Make your room as dark as possible. Block outside sounds (try earplugs, a fan, or a noise machine). Keep the temperature cool. Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Eat healthily. Exercise at least three hours before bed. Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol before bed. Develop a relaxing sleep ritual, like taking a bath, listening to music, and reading something calming.
