I’m getting informed about the dangers of drowsy driving as part of a sponsored discussion for the National Sleep Foundation. #DrowsyDriving
If you’ve been around here long, you know WE LOVE, LOVE, LOVE ROAD TRIPS!! We try to fit as many in as possible but always make it a point to go on a long one for spring break. We were lucky enough to take one to Florida, just me and the kids. We packed our bags and hit the road, planning to stop at certain cities along the way making getting there a 3 day journey. We spent a few glorious days on the beach with the sand between our toes and cool drinks in our hands. It’s a trip we’ll remember forever.
One little planning mistake happened that I would love to fill you in on. In an effort to extend our time in the sun, I planned to drive straight home for the 15 hour drive. I don’t even know why I thought this was an ok idea, looking back on it. I hadn’t factored in traffic or detours or even meals and bathroom breaks. I love being behind the wheel and it’s my happy place but it can quickly turn into a not so pleasant experience if you over-do it. My kids are teens so they were fine with entertaining themselves so that wasn’t an issue but after long hours in the car anyone can expect some grumpiness.
About 2 hours away from home, I started to feel the effects after I don’t know how many hours of straight driving. It was really dark, a little misty and my eyes were strained. I was yawning and yawning. I tried everything to stay alert. I rolled down the windows, turned the heat way down and even blasted the radio to no avail. I just wanted to make it home. Well, there was no way I was going to make it without a nap even though we were so close. Hitting that rumble strip on the side of the road made the decision to stop driving for me. We pulled into a rest stop and took a nap. I grabbed a giant cup of coffee and started out to make it the rest of the way. I don’t even want to think about what would have happened if we wouldn’t have pulled over. Next time I’m planning an extra day to get home. I’m definitely grateful that we made it home without incident.
This brought up the perfect learning opportunity to discuss with my kids who will both be hitting the road soon, the dangers of drowsy driving. Having teens that are just about to start driving make it such a priority for me. I think it’s important for parents to discuss this topic BEFORE it’s ever an issue. Getting your new drivers prepared as they begin driving so that they know the facts from day 1 is a must. I found so many great resources on The National Sleep Foundation’s website. After our experience we all took the Pledge Against Drowsy Driving!!
JOIN US IN TAKING THE PLEDGE AGAINST DROWSY DRIVING
The Pledge Against Drowsy Driving is a National Sleep Foundation initiative that seeks to raise public awareness about drowsy driving, its effect on drivers and how it can be avoided. Please take the pledge, share it with your friends, and learn more about Drowsy Driving Prevention Week. Do it for you, your family and for the safety of every driver on the road!
Although, take the pledge is an important step, I also wanted to inform my family about preparing ahead of time and the importance of sleep. Adults need at least 7-9 hours before they hit the road. Although there’s no “magic number”, you know how much you sleep need to feel alert and rested. Eight hours feels really good to me, it may be more or less for you. Getting up, even on weekends, helps too for your body to feel it’s best. As it relates to driving,plan to make scheduled stops! Please also avoid alcohol and medications if at all possible. See more below in this awesome infographic!!
Did you take the pledge? What’s most important to you when planning to take a road trip?
Disclosure: This is a sponsored discussion as part of The National Sleep Foundation’s #DrowsyDriving Awareness Initiative. All opinions are 100% mine.
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