How Often Are You Too Tired to Drive? Tallahassee VW Technology May Help

Mar 30, 2013

There is never a situation where getting behind the wheel when tired is a good idea. Driving while sleeping can prove very dangerous not only to you and your passengers but to everyone else on the roadway. Those that drive long commutes to work or work the late night shift at their job may be most susceptible to driver errors. One of the most obvious ways to prevent mistakes caused by drowsy driving is to get plenty of sleep before you get behind the wheel. But there is also new auto technology that can help you stay safe on the road in your Tallahassee Volkswagen.

Avoid Crashes with Technology

There is no technology that can make you a perfect driver but there are advances in automobiles that can help you have a safer ride. One reason accidents occur on the highway is due to a momentary drift into another vehicle’s lane. With lane departure warning system, drivers can be alerted when another vehicle starts to cross over into their own lane and can react appropriately. The system also alerts drivers when they are the one making the mistake so they can correct it and prevent an accident.

There are other alert systems that can be beneficial to your safety. Forward collision warning systems use cameras or sensors to indicate to a driver when another vehicle or object in too close to the front of their vehicle. Because accidents often happen quickly and unexpectedly, such a warning system can give a driver the heads up they need to react in time. Many vehicle models with this system also feature automatic braking capabilities. This allows the vehicle to slow down or stop itself if a collision is anticipated. This quick reaction can help prevent a collision in your Tallahassee FL Volkswagen.

Personal Responsibility Is Key

While technology on your vehicle can be helpful, it certainly is not the only answer. Drivers have a responsibility to everyone on the road to ensure they are not driving while impaired. Long-distance drives should start with sufficient rest for the driver and planned stops for additional rest.

For those commuting from work while fatigued, it can certainly help to have another person in the vehicle with you to keep you alert. Drinking caffeine and letting some fresh air in the cabin of the vehicle can all help when you feel yourself becoming drowsy. Never drive after taking medications with driver impairment warnings, including sleep medications and cold remedies sold over the counter or by prescription.