TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) – The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) announce the launch of their annual Drowsy Driving Prevention Campaign. This important project lasts for a month and is focused on teaching people about the risks of driving while tired on our roads. The first week, from September 1 to September 7, is dedicated to honoring the memory of Ronshay Dugans, an 8-year-old girl who was killed when her school bus was hit by a cement truck driver who fell asleep at the wheel in Tallahassee, Sept. 5, 2008.

In today’s fast-paced world where people are always juggling multiple responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the signs of exhaustion. However, when we take the driver’s seat, we hold a personal responsibility to make sure that we are fully prepared for the journey ahead.

Throughout September, FLHSMV will focus on educating drivers on how to recognize the warning signs of fatigue, strategies to prevent drowsiness before driving, and the best actions to take if feeling tired behind the wheel. Drowsy driving poses a significant threat to public safety, with potentially severe consequences. Nevertheless, the silver lining is that drowsy driving is entirely preventable. By equipping ourselves with the right knowledge and taking proactive steps, we can help make our roads safer for all.

“Driving without adequate rest is dangerous. Drowsy driving is completely preventable and should be avoided at all costs. Anyone about to take the wheel should be fully alert, responsive, and ready for the drive,” says Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Drivers must weigh the risks and consequences of embarking on a journey without sufficient sleep. Such a decision could have a profound impact on their lives and the lives of others on the road.”

FHP Colonel Gary Howze II shares a similar sentiment. “Motorists should consider that Drowsy Driving is similar to Impaired Driving and poses a danger to everyone on the road,” he says. “When tired, making safe and responsible choices such as switching drivers, stopping at rest areas, or delaying travel until everyone is rested is important. Each of these choices is better than setting yourself and others up for a higher risk of being involved in a crash with injury or loss of life. It’s your responsibility.”

A report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety released in March 2024 shows that the number of accidents and deaths caused by drowsy driving goes up each year. It also points out that these incidents are often not reported enough.

The Florida Department of Transportation, together with various groups and leaders, highlights how important it is to get enough rest and stay alert before driving. They want us to pay attention to when we feel tired and make sure we rest properly. By doing this, we can all help lower the number of traffic accidents and injuries in Florida.

Recognizing the signs of drowsy driving

Drowsy driving is entirely preventable. By raising awareness and making sure we recognize the signs of fatigue before getting behind the wheel, we can eliminate the risk of drowsy driving.

  • Yawning or frequent blinking.
  • Difficulty remembering the past few miles driven.
  • Missing your exit.
  • Drifting from your lane.
  • Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road.
  • Nodding off or micro sleeping.
  • Following other cars too closely.
  • Difficulty maintaining proper speed.

If you start to feel sleepy, can’t concentrate, yawn a lot, or find yourself swerving, these are clear signs that you should stop and take a break or switch drivers. It’s really important to pay attention to these signals instead of trying things like blasting the music or rolling down the window to stay awake and safe while driving.

How to avoid the risk of drowsy driving
  • Get enough sleep before you get behind the wheel; it is the best way to ensure you can maintain alertness while driving.
  • Read the warning label on your medications, and do not drive after taking medications that cause drowsiness.
  • On long trips, take a break every 100 miles or two hours. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination.
  • Use the “buddy system” so you can change drivers when needed.
  • Avoid driving at times when you would usually be asleep. If you have difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids, pull over in a safe place to rest before continuing to drive.
  • The Florida Department of Transportation maintains multiple rest areas, service plazas, truck comfort stations, and welcome centers throughout Florida. There are great places to stop and take a break. Florida offers numerous rest areas that can be found throughout the state.

FLHSMV also wants to remind us to be careful of “tricks” to stay awake while driving. Some drivers think that rolling down their windows, cranking up the air conditioning, or blasting the radio will help, but the FLHSMV says that these things can actually distract us from the road. Instead of relying on these tricks, it’s smarter to pull over and give your body the rest it really needs.