Banner Health understands that driving is an important part of your life and we want to help you stay safe and alert behind the wheel. Whether it’s errands that need to be run, commuting to work or shuttling kids between activities, you have obligations and need to get around.
Learn the warning signs and solutions for falling asleep while driving.
When you drive tired or drowsy, it not only puts you at danger but others as well. Many people are fatigued due to work, school or family commitments and pose a risk to themselves and others when on the road. It’s important to understand why you feel tired while driving: Are you not getting enough sleep at night? Have you taken medication that makes you drowsy? Do you have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea?
Have you asked yourself “Why do I fall asleep while driving?” You may have more than one reason that you’re tired behind the wheel. Ask yourself if you’re doing any of the following:
Sometimes you’re sick and need to take medication. Many cold, flu and allergy medicines have ingredients that leave you tired. These may include:
It is important to read the label, precautions and side effects on all medications to see if they may cause drowsiness. You may also want to check with your pharmacist or doctor for more information.
It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of tired driving. Pull over immediately if you experience any of the following:
If you start to fall asleep while driving, pull over immediately to rest.
If you start to feel tired or drowsy while driving, take action before you find yourself asleep at the wheel. There are things you can do to avoid and prevent falling asleep while driving and stay alert by trying the following:
While getting to your destination is your goal, your safety and the safety of others on the road is more important. Take the time to rest when you need it. If you find yourself constantly falling asleep while driving, reach out to the sleep specialists at Banner Health to help diagnose and test any potential sleep disorders you may have.