Sleepiness and fatigue brought on by not getting enough rest at night are key causes of car, truck, and other serious accidents, as many San Diego car accident attorneys have seen. Sleep is so important to preventing motor vehicle accidents that the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently revised its hours of service rules for commercial drivers to reflect the human brain’s need for uninterrupted sleep.
How can you and your family help protect yourselves from vehicle accidents? One way is by celebrating Better Sleep Week. According to a study published last month by the Better Sleep Council, most Americans know what they need to do in order to get better sleep – they just aren’t doing it. Better Sleep Week, May 5-13, is a great time to start.
Here are just a few ways in which you can improve the quality of your sleep, making you more alert at home, in the car, and at work:
- Choose the right mattress. Your mattress forms the foundation of a good night’s sleep by providing the comfort and support your body needs to deeply relax. On average, a mattress should be reevaluated after five to seven years of use. Check for sags, lumps, broken springs, and other problems that suggest it’s time for a replacement.
- Create a sleep sanctuary. Reserve your bedroom for sleeping and sexual activity only. Choose sheets and bedding that feel good to you. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that doesn’t involve TV or computer screens, and stick to it. Choosing lighting and colors that you find soothing can also improve your sleep.
- Pay attention to how you feel when traveling. If you feel fatigued or drowsy, avoid driving, or find a place to take a short nap before driving.
