Don’t Snooze and Cruise: Why Sleep Matters for Safe Driving in Central Texas

We all know the dangers of texting and driving—but what about tired driving? Every year, thousands of preventable accidents are caused by drowsy drivers who thought they could power through. That’s why the National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week (November 2–8, 2025) is here to remind us all of one simple truth: sometimes, the safest thing you can do behind the wheel is get some sleep before you get behind the wheel.

Drowsy Driving: More Common Than You Think

If you’ve ever found yourself blinking hard to stay awake on I-35 or missing your exit on Highway 281, you’re not alone. Studies show that going 18 hours without sleep can affect your driving just as much as being legally intoxicated. And while it’s tempting to rely on coffee or loud music, those “fixes” only go so far.

Here in Central Texas—where long commutes, weekend road trips, and early-morning ranch runs are just part of life—it’s easy to underestimate how fatigue can creep up on you.

How to Stay Alert Behind the Wheel

You don’t have to cancel your road trip to Fredericksburg or your late-night Buc-ee’s stop. Just keep these sleep-smart driving habits in mind:

• Avoid driving during peak drowsy hours (midnight to 6 a.m.).
• Get 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night—yes, really.
• Take breaks every two hours during long drives. Stretch, walk, or grab a snack.
• Share driving duties when possible. Two alert drivers are better than one sleepy one.

Commit to Driving Alert

The bottom line: if you’re sleepy, your reaction time, awareness, and judgment take a nosedive. Before you head out, check in with yourself—if you’re not fully awake, it’s worth waiting or switching drivers.

At Dowd Insurance Agency, we care about keeping Central Texas roads safe. So the next time you’re yawning on the way to work or a weekend getaway, remember: it’s better to arrive late than not at all.

Visit the National Sleep Foundation to learn more about drowsy driving and how better sleep can save lives.