Is Highway Hypnosis Bad

While you might be technically awake and operating on autopilot, highway hypnosis still leaves you less than fully alert, so it could have serious consequences. It’s pretty common to fall under the spell of a long and boring road, but you can lower your risk by taking steps ahead of time to keep yourself more alert.

Why does highway hypnosis happen?

Highway hypnosis naturally occurs when your attention is occupied with things other than your driving. It might be a song on the radio, a review of something significant that happened at work that day, or anything else that you get absorbed in while you’re driving your car.

What can drivers do to avoid highway hypnosis?

• Take a break.
• Avoid driving during your normal sleeping hours.
• Map out your rest spots.
• Keep your eyes moving and check your rear-view and side mirrors often.
• Read all the road signs and traffic around you.
• Talk to your passengers.