Long-haul truck drivers spend a lot of time behind the wheel of their truck. Some experts estimate that truckers travel approximately 64,000 miles per year. No wonder they get sleepy, it’s like going around the world two and a half times. Dealing with drowsiness without medication is something that drivers try to achieve.

Drivers on the road aren’t the only people who struggle with sleep while driving. Drivers of passenger vehicles also have to deal with this problem. Unfortunately, if you fall asleep while driving, you could have a serious accident in which you or other innocent people could be killed.

Finding yourself sleepy is the time to stop, get out of your truck and take a short walk. By getting out of the truck, you are making your body move, which should help you wake up. Walking will get your blood pumping and the change of scenery will help your mind refocus. After 10 to 15 minutes, your body should be rejuvenated and ready to get back on the platform and back on the road.

Plan to drive during your normal waking hours if possible. Driving when you are normally asleep will only make it more likely that you will feel drowsy.

Time your trip so you can take a break every two hours or so. Give yourself the opportunity to cool off by taking a nap of up to 40 minutes. Anything longer than that will have a detrimental effect rather than a refreshing one.

Avoid eating heavy meals. You know how you feel after Thanksgiving; all you want to do is take a nap. Large meals require your body to slow down to aid in digestion, which makes you feel drowsy. If you’re afraid you’ll get hungry before you have another chance to stop to eat, make sure you have some fruit or cereal bars on hand.

Make sure you are drinking enough fluids. Water would be the best option, but caffeinated beverages improve alertness. However, it takes about 20 minutes for caffeine to take effect. If you’re sleepy, drinking a cup of coffee won’t help you right away.

Having someone to share driving responsibilities with would be a great way to deal with drowsiness. This is part of the reason married couples succeed as team truckers. They can help share the driving, keep each other company, and make work that much more enjoyable.

It is possible to treat drowsiness without medication. Some of these suggestions may seem easy, but sometimes the easiest solutions are also the best. Implement one of these ideas the next time you feel sleepy while driving; you will stay awake and be more refreshed.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *