Did you know that drowsy driving claimed 795 lives in 2017 – Yet falling asleep at the wheel is totally preventable. It’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week this week – and with the world in the shape it is, it is safe to say we’re all a bit drowsy. Whether you’re worried about yourself for an upcoming holiday road trip to see the family or a loved one who spends a lot of time in drive, Car and Driver’s newest product, the Copilot, is specifically designed to help lessen drowsy driving and protect everyone on the road.
What is it? The device acts as a copilot to help keep drivers alert and aware. Copilot plugs into your vehicle and monitors a driver’s eyelids and pupils to alert them when they are closing their eyes or distracted from the road, without creating further distractions like some devices.
Device features:
- Pupil Detection
- Head Movement Tracking
- 6 Non-contact IR LEDS
- Works Day and Night
- Loud Piercing Alert
- Seat Vibrator
Cost: During Drowsy Driving Prevention Week (Nov.1 to Nov. 8) the usually $180 priced item will be on sale for $99 – a steal to save a loved one’s (or your own) life.
Additionally, playing lively music has been known to aid the effects of drowsy driving to keep folks alert and in tune. Car and Driver is offering 25% off all of its other car accessory products at BestBuy during drowsy driving week to help drivers upgrade vehicles without having to buy a completely new one before their road trips.
- Nanobit (usually $22.99) – the world’s smallest12V car charger; designed to sit flush with car’s control panel
- FM Transmitter/12V charger (usually $29.99) – acts asyour Bluetooth capabilities if you have an older car – meaning you can play music and make calls through your phone
- Wireless Charging Mound (usually $54.99) – fits comfortably in many places on you dashboard – with no wires
Tips for Preventing Drowsy Driving
In addition to having the proper tech- before you get behind the wheel- there are several things drivers should do to prevent drowsy driving related incidents from police experts:
- Get Good Sleep: Before the start of a long family car trip, get a good night’s sleep. It’s a good idea to make it a priority to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
- Schedule Breaks: If you are driving a long distance, schedule proper breaks. If you do feel drowsy, find a safe place to stop for a break or for the night.
- Drive Sober: Do not drink alcohol before driving. Always check your prescription and over-the-counter medication labels to see if drowsiness could result from their use.
- Drive During the Day: Avoid driving during the peak sleepiness periods (midnight – 6 a.m. and late afternoon). If you must drive during the peak sleepiness periods, stay vigilant for signs of drowsiness.
The Takeaway
The roads are more packed than ever with pandemic air travel numbers diminishing and road trips on the rise. It is very important to ensure you have the proper preparation, procedures and products before you get on the road.
