How can drowsiness while driving be best assessed?

Drowsiness while driving can be best assessed by recognizing signs such as difficulty focusing and frequent yawning. These symptoms are clear indicators that the body is not in an optimal state for driving, suggesting that the driver may be fatigued or about to fall asleep. When a driver experiences difficulty in maintaining attention, it indicates that their cognitive functions are impaired, which directly impacts their ability to react promptly to driving conditions.

Frequent yawning is a natural physiological reaction that often signals the need for rest. It can be a sign that the brain is trying to increase oxygen levels in response to fatigue, further demonstrating that the driver’s alertness may be compromised. Being able to identify these symptoms is crucial for ensuring safety on the road, as drowsiness can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents.

On the other hand, feeling energetic and focused, having an extended attention span, or maintaining a routine sleep schedule do not reflect signs of drowsiness. In fact, they indicate the opposite—a state of alertness and readiness for the task of driving.