Drivers are being urged to take some steps to prevent drowsiness while out on the road this Labour Day long weekend.
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia anticipates as many as 2,000 crashes to occur over the three days. On average, six people are killed and 520 people are injured over that time across the province.
Drowsiness is the biggest foe. According to a recent poll more than half reported being tired at some time when travelling long distances, causing them to lose focus, slow their reaction time, impair their vision, and affect their ability to make good driving decisions.
Signs of drowsiness include drifting out of your lane, inconsistent speed, erratic braking, missing an exit or turn, frequent yawning, frequent blinking and loss of concentration.
Here are some tips for preventing and dealing with drowsiness:
- Get enough sleep. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep to be well-rested and alert the next day.
- Travel in the morning. Sleepiness can affect people throughout the day, but drivers are prone to drowsy driving in the late-afternoon and late at night when the body's circadian rhythm dips.
- Take frequent breaks. Schedule a break at least once every two hours. Use this time to send an update to family and friends, or to check road conditions.
- Share the driving with others. Split the responsibility to get to your destination safely with other drivers in your vehicle.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting drivebc.ca for the latest road conditions.
