What can be done to increase alertness while driving?

Increasing alertness while driving can be achieved through various means that help keep the driver focused and engaged. Having someone ride with you can provide companionship and encouragement, which may help you stay more alert. The presence of another person can create a level of interaction that keeps your mind active and engaged with the driving process, reducing the likelihood of drowsiness or monotony that sometimes occurs during long drives.

This method engages social interaction, which can be stimulating and prevent mind drift, making it a beneficial strategy for maintaining alertness on the road. In contrast, while taking deep breaths and listening to music can help manage stress and create a pleasant atmosphere, they may not actively promote alertness to the same extent as having another person to converse with. Using cruise control might actually reduce the driver's level of engagement and attention, potentially leading to a relaxed state that could decrease alertness.