You begin the drive home after a long day at work, and you may be tired in traffic. It’s dangerous to drive when you’re drowsy as you can fall asleep behind the wheel, causing a car accident. If you can’t avoid making the commute home, here are a few ways you can stay alert while driving to ensure you arrive safely.

How to Prevent a Car Accident When Driving Tired

1. Take a Nap

If you have a few minutes to spare, take a nap in the car before heading out. A quick power nap will help you feel more alert, leaving you energized for the drive home and taking the edge off sleepiness. Sleep for only 20 minutes; a longer nap will cause you to go into a deeper slumber, and you may feel more tired when you wake.

2. Drink Caffeine

A caffeinated beverage, like coffee or an energy drink, can give you a boost of energy for about four to six hours. Consume the beverage 45 minutes before you depart so that the caffeine has time to kick in.

3. Share the Burden

Find out if anyone at work travels from a similar direction and ask if they’d like to carpool. Aside from halving the cost of the commute, you can take turns driving and resting, easing the burden for both of you. Additionally, you’ll have someone to chat with, keeping your mind awake during the drive.

If you fall asleep behind the wheel and get into a car accident, contact the Basic Auto Collision Team in Honolulu, HI. This body shop specializes in accident repairs, and their skilled technicians will fix your vehicle quickly to get you back on the road. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 842-3966 to request an estimate or schedule a Saturday appointment.