Drowsy driving is a dangerous activity.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 100,000 police-reported crashes each year involve drowsy drivers. These drowsy driving safety tips can help keep you and other travelers safe while on the road.

• Get a full night’s sleep before traveling.
• If possible, do not travel alone.
• Take frequent breaks by stopping at a rest area, gas station, or restaurant.
• Caffeine and energy drinks provide a quick, but short-lived improvement.
• If you are taking any medication, check whether it causes drowsiness.
• Don’t drink and drive.
• Call your friends and family during your stops to let them know you stopped to rest.

How to tell if you’re too tired to drive:

• Frequent yawning
• Having trouble keeping your head up
• Inability to remember the last few miles
• Missing turns or road signs
• Difficulty maintaining speed
• Drifting out of your lane

Staying off the roads while tired can potentially save a life. Following these drowsy driving safety tips is crucial to maintaining everyone’s wellbeing while on the road. For more information about how to protect yourself while on the road, ask a local Rockingham Insurance agent about our auto policy.