For safety's sake, take a time-out
By: Jack Nerad for Driving Today
Date: 2004-08-25
With more and more cars on the road, traffic congestion during summer vacations is becoming a major source of driver frustration and fatigue. Today, there are more licensed cars than licensed drivers in the U.S. The number of licensed vehicles has increased 87 percent in the past 30 years, while the U.S. population has only increased 30 percent. And vehicle miles traveled has increased 130 percent. Traffic now exceeds road capacity in more than half of the nation's 50 largest urban areas. Highway traffic congestion causes an estimated 3.5 billion hours of delays per year in 75 of the largest metropolitan areas.
Recognizing all this, ExxonMobil studied the needs, wants, attitudes, and behaviors of the nation's drivers to help improve the overall driving experience. One finding: taking periodic breaks is an important factor in making a journey safer and more enjoyable. And when drivers do stop, they expect a lot more than just fuel for their cars; they'd like fuel for their bodies and souls as well. To help provide a small oasis from the crowded highways, the company has designed its On the Run convenience stores with drivers' needs in mind, making it as easy as possible to find what drivers want.
"Nearly one quarter of all traffic crashes are caused by distractions," says Ben Soraci, U.S. manager of On the Run stores. "That accounts for 1.2 million accidents. Distracted drivers react more slowly to traffic conditions, they fail more often to recognize potential hazards and that decreases their margin of safety. Even seemingly innocent activities such as reaching or leaning, manipulating music, or adjusting temperature controls can be significant distractions. Taking periodic breaks helps motorists sharpen their focus on driving."
To help avoid unnecessary distractions, try these smart driving tricks:
- Before you start a trip make sure you have directions to your destination.
- Keep an atlas in the car.
- Limit each day's drive to 300 miles.
- Switch drivers even if you don't feel tired.
- Roll down the windows to increase ventilation to help stay alert.
- Take regular breaks from driving at a place that's easily accessible from the highway. Eat light meals and drink stimulating beverages like coffee, tea, or other caffeinated drinks.
"Sleeplessness slows reaction time and cognitive processing and can cause fatigue while driving." says Soraci. "Take remedial action before stress and fatigue get the better of you."
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