Road trips are a beloved summer tradition for many families, but some drivers prioritize reaching their destination over their own need for sleep. Dr. Philip Alapat, an expert in sleep disorders and assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, emphasizes the critical role of sufficient sleep in ensuring safe and enjoyable road trips.
Alapat highlights that sleep deprivation often begins even before the journey starts. “People may stay up late preparing the night before a trip and then aim for an early start,” he explains. Additionally, the rush to finish work before vacation contributes to this sleep deficit.
During road trips, sleep deprivation can worsen as drivers attempt to stay awake late into the night instead of resting. This cumulative lack of sleep leads to significant drowsiness and fatigue, which are dangerous when driving and trying to stay focused on the road.
Driving at night or in challenging weather conditions becomes particularly hazardous when individuals are sleep deprived. Alapat points out that most nighttime traffic accidents involve single vehicles, often due to drivers falling asleep at the wheel and veering off the road or colliding with objects on the roadside. “In adverse weather, drivers need heightened alertness, but fatigue impairs this ability to remain attentive,” he warns.
To prevent falling asleep while driving, Alapat advises recognizing signs of sleepiness such as heavy eyelids and difficulty staying alert. If fatigue sets in, he recommends switching drivers or taking a break at a rest stop. While caffeine can briefly enhance alertness, Alapat cautions against relying on it excessively, as it can disrupt sleep quality later on.
Ultimately, Alapat stresses that the most effective way to combat sleep deprivation is simply to prioritize sleep. “Respect your body’s need for rest and avoid pushing through fatigue,” he advises. “Taking breaks and arriving safely is more important than rushing to your destination.”
