There are many cases involving vehicle drivers who have had an accident due to falling asleep while driving especially during the festive season. From minor injuries to severe, broken limbs, some even lost their lives.
This is called Microsleep. The vast majority of drivers who survived an accident claimed that they were unconscious when they actually fell asleep, some even said that they only closed their eyes for 2-3 seconds and did not think that the ‘unfortunate tragedy’ happened in the blink of an eye.
Witnesses also often claim that the car they are driving will ‘stagger’ before colliding with another vehicle. To avoid that, here is some advice from the Malaysian Road Transport Department (RTD).
“Beware of microsleep. If you have any of these symptoms while driving please stop in any safe area and rest,” wrote RTD in one of their Facebook post.
If you starting to have these symptoms:
- Dry eyelids
- Nodded
- Yawn repeatedly
- Eyes fluttering
- Lost control of vehicle lanes
- Daydreaming view
Prevention
- Do not drive when drowsy
- Stop awhile to sleep for 20 minutes
- Listening to the radio
- Eat vitamins/sweets
- Get enough rest
- Moving the body
Sources: JPJ