Read labels carefully before taking medication if you plan to drive. 

## driving tip 

You can become unaware of your surroundings when you drive for a long time on a highway or freeway that doesn’t change much. This is called highway hypnosis. Some areas have installed rumble strips or rough patches to warn drivers if they start to drift into another lane. You can help avoid highway hypnosis by turning off the cruise control, scanning systematically and using strategies to stay awake. 

## Assessing your health 

Even a mild illness like a cold or the flu can affect your alertness. Over-the-counter medicines can make you drowsy and slow 

your reaction time. 

## Strategies: what to do if you’re not feeling well 

• Take the bus or get a friend to drive you. 

• Read the label carefully if you are taking any medications. Don’t drive if the label says the drug may cause drowsiness or dizziness. 

## Staying awake 

Being tired is one of the leading causes of crashes. Fatigue affects all stages of the see-think-do strategy. It can cause you to scan inaccurately, slow your thinking and lengthen your reaction time. 

To keep alert behind the wheel, especially for long journeys: 

• Start out well rested. 

• Take breaks. Walk around and get some exercise. 

• Stop and eat, but avoid heavy meals because they may make you feel sleepy. 

• Keep the heat level moderate. 

• Keep a window open for fresh air. 

• Sing or talk to keep yourself paying attention. 

• Pull over to a rest stop and take a nap (be sure to lock your doors). 

• Don’t drive too far at one time. If you are making a long trip, be especially careful on the second day. This is when tiredness is most likely to affect you. 

## Strategies: staying awake 

If you have a health condition that you think might impair your ability to drive, be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before getting behind the wheel. 

