When you think of dangerous driving behaviors, what comes to mind? Most people would name texting and drinking as the most dangerous driving behaviors, but there is another dangerous behavior you need to be aware of: drowsy driving. One survey found that 60% of adult drivers had driven drowsy in the past year. More alarmingly, 37% of those surveyed had fallen asleep at the wheel.

Drowsy driving can have deadly consequences and can lead to serious lawsuits should you happen to injure someone else. To protect yourself, others, and your wallet, rely on these tips.

Call a friend.

If you are feeling tired and have to drive alone, consider calling a friend who you can talk to while you drive home. Of course, you should make sure you use a hands-free set for safety. Tell the person you call that you are tired and need to drive, so they can focus on keeping the conversation upbeat and lively. If you're laughing with a friend about last weekend's antics or listening to a dramatic story they're telling you, then you'll have a lot less trouble staying alert.

Eat a crunchy snack.

If you're munching away on a good snack, you'll stay more alert. Make sure you choose something really crunchy -- like chips or crackers. The noise of the crunching and the more pronounced jaw action will serve to keep you awake.

Roll down the windows.

If you're uncomfortably cold, you won't be nearly as likely to doze off as you would be if you're warm and snuggling inside your car. If it's the middle of the summer and rolling down the windows does not keep the car cool, blast the air conditioning straight on your face.

If all else fails, take a nap or make other transportation plans.

If you're driving down the road with your windows down, a snack in hand, and a friend in your ear -- yet you still feel like you might  nod off -- don't chance it. Pull off of the road in a safe place, and either take a brief nap to refresh yourself, or call someone to come pick you up. Since there is no test like a breathalyzer to test for drowsiness behind the wheel, it is up to you to be responsible and stay off the road if you think there's any chance you won't stay awake and alert.

If you do happen to be in an accident in which drowsiness is a factor, it is in your best interest to contact a personal injury attorney, such as Richard M Altman, right away.

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