Drowsy driving is a serious issue in the United States, and it extends to motorcyclists. Drowsy riding can lead to mistakes, accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
So, what should you do if you're riding your bike and you start feeling too tired? Here are a few things to try:
- Get off the road and take a nap. Do not put yourself or anyone else in danger.
- Stop for a meal or a snack. It can really wake you up. Spicy food may jolt you awake and sugary food can give you a burst of energy.
- Grab a coffee or an energy drink. When you gas up, spend 10 minutes waiting at the gas station and drinking something with a high caffeine content to keep you awake.
- Don't listen to your favorite music. It's familiar and comforting, and that can make you tired. Listen to nothing or listen to something you don't like.
- Take breaks. If you know you often get tired while riding, plan your trip out with breaks every hour or so to get off the bike and walk around a bit.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet. The tips about snacks listed above can help as a last resort, but your best energy source is just a consistent healthy diet so that you don't need caffeine and high-sugar snacks at all.
Of course, just making sure that you're not too tired to ride doesn't solve all of the problems. You still have to contend with drowsy drivers and other tired riders in your group. If you get injured in an accident, you may be able to seek financial compensation.