The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and its division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) have launched the annual Drowsy Driving Prevention Campaign.
Throughout September, FLHSMV will focus on educating drivers to recognize the signs of exhaustion, how to prevent drowsiness when planning to be behind the wheel, and what to do if they are tired or displaying signs of fatigue while driving.
“Motorists should consider that drowsy driving is similar to impaired driving and poses a danger to everyone on the road,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II.
“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.”
Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety report published in March 2024 indicates that the number of drowsy driving crashes and fatalities increases every year. It also notes that it is underreported.
The FLHSMV has offered the following tips to recognize the signs 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
Motorists who feel drowsy, have difficulty focusing, yawn frequently or drift out of their lane are advised to pull over and take a break or consider changing drivers.
