Before departure
Get adequate sleep, avoid alcohol, check medicine labels, share the driving, and plan safe rest locations. Change the trip rather than relying on recovery after fatigue begins.
At the first warning sign
Take the next safe opportunity to pull over. Heavy eyelids, repeated yawning, lane drift, missed signs, and poor recall are not problems to negotiate with.
Short-term measures
NHTSA notes that caffeine followed by a short nap may improve alertness temporarily. This is not a substitute for sleep and does not make severe sleep deprivation safe.
Common myths
Cold air, loud music, chewing, conversation, and determination may feel stimulating but do not remove the underlying drive for sleep.
Use technology correctly
Vehicle monitoring and EyeJolt may add a warning. Configure devices before moving and never interact with a phone while driving.
Know when not to start
Delay the trip or arrange alternative transport after very short sleep, an overnight shift, repeated daytime sleep episodes, or medication-related drowsiness.
Sources
Written by the EyeJolt Editorial Team. Published and last reviewed 2026-07-14. Editorial policy.