HAVE YOU EVER driven to a destination and upon arrival have no recollection of the drive there? This kind of autopilot driving is called highway hypnosis or white-line fever.

It’s as if our mind is doing one thing while our body is doing another. And yes, zoning out whilst driving but still responding correctly to all events is as scary as it sounds but what’s even scarier is that it is actually quite common on our roads.

However, there are some ways of preventing highway hypnosis and staying present and safe whilst driving.

Sit up straight – adjust your seat so you are not slouching. You want to be in an active, not passive mode.

Turn it up – put on the radio and sing along to some tunes to keep your brain active and engaged.

Take a break – if you are driving for long periods take regular breaks to prevent fatigue and tiredness.

Play a game – keep that brain of yours active and aware of your surroundings by playing a game based on things you see on the road. Find something in the landscape beginning with the letter ‘A’, then ‘B’ and so on.

If you are alone, say it out loud, if you have company play the game with them or play the game in your head if they are being spoilsports and don’t want to play with you.

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