From physical to mental, the benefits of getting enough high-quality sleep are many. When it comes to professional drivers, the stakes are even higher because sleep can be the difference between arriving home safe or not.
The average adult needs seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep to feel well–rested, although the amount of sleep an individual need varies from person to person. Losing a little as two hours of sleep can negatively affect performance behind the wheel.
Aside from helping fend off fatigue, proper rest also helps the human body function more efficiently, producing physical benefits like:
- A stronger immune system
- Improved healing
- Fewer cravings for unhealthy foods
- Stronger bones and muscles
In addition, sufficient quality sleep produces many mental and psychological benefits such as:
- Heightened clarity and alertness
- Improved decision–making capabilities
- Fast response times
Fatigued driving is not only dangerous, it‘s prohibited. Make sleep a priority to keep yourself and other drivers safe.
Cyndi Fjelstad – Safety Director