As a commercial truck driver, safety should be your number one priority at all times. When you’re too tired to drive, you put yourself and other motorists in danger and risk damaging your vehicle, leading to tractor trailer repairs. Here is a guide to the dangers of driving while drowsy, and how to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

Why It's Dangerous to Drive If You're Tired

Your brain and body need adequate rest to function properly, and the urge to sleep is so strong that, no matter how hard you try to stay awake, your body will force itself to sleep eventually. Drinking lots of caffeine or playing loud music might keep you awake for a while, but they can’t compensate for the mental fatigue caused by lack of sleep. Even if you never actually fall asleep at the wheel, driving while drowsy clouds your judgment and makes your reaction time slower, much like driving under the influence of alcohol. 

How to Know If You're Too Tired to Drive

Your body will let you know when you’re too drowsy to drive, so to avoid injuring anyone or needing tractor trailer repairs, pay attention to those signals. You may find yourself yawning a lot, have difficulty holding up your head, or have trouble keeping your eyes focused or open. If you drift out of your lane, miss your exit, or can’t remember the last few miles you’ve driven, these are all signs that you are too fatigued to be behind the wheel.

What to Do If You're Tired 

Whenever possible, have a driving companion take the wheel for a while. If that’s not an option for you, but you think you’re too tired to drive, find a safe place where you can take a nap. A rest stop or travel center may have a parking lot where drivers can catch up on sleep. If you ever do have an accident because of driving while tired, call the authorities and request roadside assistance right away.

C L Enterprises in Ontario County, NY, is a truck, trailer, and tire facility that has been serving Upstate New York for more than 20 years. Whether you need tractor trailer repairs, welding services, or new truck tires, their team will get you back on the road. Call (585) 289-7900 today to schedule service, or visit their website to learn more about their services.