Though road rage, driving while intoxicated and other road dangers are well documented, many people do not know about something called highway hypnosis – which could be responsible for erratic driving on roadways.
Highway hypnosis – also known as ‘white line fever’ – occurs when someone has been driving a vehicle along a long stretch of roadway for an extended period of time.
The monotony of a long drive can induce sleepiness or forgetfulness. It can lull the brain into a sort of trance, and the body is essentially operating on autopilot while the mind is off somewhere else.
Highway hypnosis occurs more than people would like to believe. However, there are ways to help prevent highway hypnosis.
* Take frequent rests on a long trip to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
* Bring a road trip partner along and make conversation.
* Open the windows and get circulation going.