{"id":1268,"date":"2021-07-01T13:04:00","date_gmt":"2021-07-01T20:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sjlawaustin.wpengine.com\/?p=1268"},"modified":"2023-04-29T23:54:40","modified_gmt":"2023-04-29T23:54:40","slug":"how-to-stay-alert-while-driving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Stay Alert While Driving"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Begin_Your_Trip_Rested_and_Prepared\" title=\"Begin Your Trip Rested and Prepared\">Begin Your Trip Rested and Prepared<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Get_Some_Rest\" title=\"Get Some Rest\">Get Some Rest<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Fuel_Up\" title=\"Fuel Up\">Fuel Up<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Take_Your_Vitamins\" title=\"Take Your Vitamins\">Take Your Vitamins<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#On_the_Road\" title=\"On the Road\">On the Road<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Crank_Up_the_Audio\" title=\"Crank Up the Audio\">Crank Up the Audio<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Roll_Down_the_Windows\" title=\"Roll Down the Windows\">Roll Down the Windows<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Make_Sure_to_Move\" title=\"Make Sure to Move\">Make Sure to Move<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#What_to_Avoid\" title=\"What to Avoid\">What to Avoid<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Limit_Your_Caffeine\" title=\"Limit Your Caffeine\">Limit Your Caffeine<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Fend_Off_Sugary_Snacks\" title=\"Fend Off Sugary Snacks\">Fend Off Sugary Snacks<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/how-to-stay-alert-while-driving\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>Whether it\u2019s the hum of the tires or the subtle vibration of a car in cruise control, staying alert while driving can be difficult. Driver fatigue sets in, and the next thing you know, your eyelids start to feel awfully heavy. Starting to doze off or losing focus behind the wheel has led to many tragic accidents. Whether you are driving a big rig or a small vehicle, you must remain alert \u2013 even if there are no other cars around.<\/p>\n<p>Below are a few methods to help you stay alert and focused while on the road, but above all, if you have any doubt regarding your ability to safely complete your trip, stop and get some additional rest immediately or as soon as you are safely able to do so. If you are reading this because you or someone you know was already involved in an accident, and you suspect that driver fatigue may have played a role, please contact Sandoval &amp; James today for a completely free consultation with an experienced Austin car accident attorney.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Begin_Your_Trip_Rested_and_Prepared\"><\/span>Begin Your Trip Rested and Prepared<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s important to prepare yourself for a long drive before getting in the car. Your body needs ample rest and nutrition if you expect it to remain sharp. Driving, especially for long periods, can be mundane. Taking necessary precautions will keep your mind and body vigilant. So, before you hop in the car, make sure to do the following:<\/p>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 5%;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_Some_Rest\"><\/span>Get Some Rest<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sleepfoundation.org\/drowsy-driving\/how-to-stay-awake-tips\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Research<\/a> shows that taking a twenty-minute power nap before getting behind the wheel provides your body with the crucial rest it needs to remain attentive \u2013 even while doing something as routine as driving. It\u2019s also smart to pull over and catnap if you are feeling worn down. Trying to fight your fatigue can lead to devastating accidents. Pull off the road and take a quick nap; your body and mind will thank you.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fuel_Up\"><\/span>Fuel Up<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your vehicle isn\u2019t the only thing that needs proper fuel before hitting the road \u2013 your body does too. Eating a healthy meal before getting behind the wheel will provide you with the complex carbohydrates your body needs to maintain long-lasting stamina. The drive-thru sounds convenient when on a road trip, but the fats and sugars will deplete your energy in the long run. Consuming whole foods like lean meats, vegetables, and fruits will help you stay awake.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_Your_Vitamins\"><\/span>Take Your Vitamins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This may sound more like a health tip than a method for staying alert while driving, but it rings true for both! Vitamin B and vitamin C boost your energy levels. Taking vitamin supplements, along with your healthy pre-route meal, will maximize absorption into your system and provide you with higher and long-lasting energy levels.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"On_the_Road\"><\/span>On the Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are also several helpful ways to keep your mind alert once you\u2019re on the road. Utilizing these tips will help you maintain energy, limit the role fatigue can play while behind the wheel, and keep you fully engaged in the task at hand.<\/p>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 5%;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Crank_Up_the_Audio\"><\/span>Crank Up the Audio<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Now is the time to crank up the volume. Music, audiobooks, and podcasts are excellent resources while driving for extended periods. They keep your mind engaged and can make the time on the road pass quickly. Whatever it is that interests you, plug it in and turn it up.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Roll_Down_the_Windows\"><\/span>Roll Down the Windows<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is especially effective when it\u2019s cooler outside than it is in the car. Typically, it starts to get a little warm while driving, so rolling down the windows and letting fresh, cool air in will shock your system and provide you with the temporary wake-up call you need. Oxygen flow will only provide a moment of stimulation, though, so do not depend on it to keep you alert throughout your entire drive.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Make_Sure_to_Move\"><\/span>Make Sure to Move<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Keeping your blood pumping and circulating is also something to be diligent about while driving. When you stop for gas, make sure to get out and do a couple of laps (walking or running) around the car or gas station to get the blood flow going again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Avoid\"><\/span>What to Avoid<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are common mistakes drivers make in an attempt to stay alert while driving. These mistakes, while providing temporary fatigue relief, can pose harmful and even dangerous consequences down the road.<\/p>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 5%;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Limit_Your_Caffeine\"><\/span>Limit Your Caffeine<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This may seem counterintuitive, but it\u2019s true. Caffeine can actually hinder your ability to stay awake and alert on the road. Ditch the coffee, and take sips of water during your trek instead. If you\u2019re afraid that water will lead to frequent hydration, remember that caffeine is a diuretic that will lead to more rest stops than water. Dehydration always leads to fatigue, so staying hydrated with water instead of a caffeinated energy drink will provide you with more energy in the long run.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fend_Off_Sugary_Snacks\"><\/span>Fend Off Sugary Snacks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While snacking helps keep drivers awake, choosing the right snack while en route is critical to staying alert. Candy and chips may sound good while in the car, but that sugar high ultimately wears off and leaves you more tired than before. Opting for a bag of almonds or apple slices will boost energy levels and won\u2019t leave you with the sugar crash that unhealthy snacks cause.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Some of these methods may seem obvious, but doing the little things before and during a long road trip can make all of the difference. Take care of yourself before you go and while on the road. By doing so, you will be better equipped to remain focused and alert. If you were hit by a fatigued driver and need a local and experienced law firm, contact the Austin car accident attorneys at <a href=\"\/\">Sandoval &amp; James<\/a>. We can help.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether it\u2019s the hum of the tires or the subtle vibration of a car in cruise control, staying alert while driving can be difficult. Driver fatigue sets in, and the next thing you know, your eyelids start to feel awfully heavy. Starting to doze off or losing focus behind the wheel has led to many tragic accidents. Whether you are driving a big rig or a small vehicle, you must remain alert \u2013 even if there are no other cars around. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":30874,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1268"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1268"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1268\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31467,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1268\/revisions\/31467"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/30874"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1268"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1268"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sj-lawfirm.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1268"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}