Letter to the Editor: Don't Drive Drowsy

With an average of 50 million Americans taking to the road during the holiday season, it is important to take a second to reflect on how we can all get to Grandmother’s house as safely and stress-free as possible.  

When we all leave the office tired from the end of the year tasks Ourisman Ford Lincoln of Alexandria is asking everyone take a moment to make sure that we are well-rested and ready to go before taking to the wheel. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 250,000 Americans drive drowsy every day. 

Unfortunately the risks of drowsy driving are well-documented.  While most people believe it is unacceptable to drive when you are too tired to keep your eyes open, NHTSA estimates 83,000 police-reported crashes a year, resulting in37,000 injuries and 886 deaths as a result of drowsy driving. 

This year Ford has gone further with a driver assist package available in the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion that helps fight fatigue on the road, alerting the driver if the car drifts out of its lane, and recommending a rest when drowsy driving is detected. 

And even without technology here are some important tips about staying alert and fighting fatigue on the road: 

• Get those zzz’s and get plenty of rest the night before.

• Hydrate with caffeine as back-up

• Car catnap

A 10-20 minute nap can go a long way to help restore alertness and improve concentration. 

All of us at Ourisman Ford Lincoln of Alexandria wish you a safe and awake holiday season. 

Lou King

Ourisman Ford Lincoln of Alexandria

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