Driving continuously may slip you into road hypnosis! Odisha STA shares tips

The State Transport Authority (STA), Odisha, has issued warning vehicle drivers about a lesser-known yet dangerous condition called ‘Road Hypnosis’. The alert comes amid increasing cases of accidents linked to prolonged, uninterrupted driving.

According to STA, drivers who continuously drive for more than two-and-a-half hours are more likely to enter a semi-trance state without realising it. In this condition, the driver loses awareness of speed, surroundings and even steering control, making them highly vulnerable to accidents. 

The phenomenon typically occurs on long, monotonous stretches of road where the mind drifts into an automated mode while reflexes weaken.

Officials noted that many road mishaps have been traced back to this subtle but dangerous mental state.

“Drivers must ensure they remain alert and break the monotony of long-distance driving to stay safe,” STA said.

How To Keep Road Hypnosis At Bay

To prevent fatigue-induced mental drift, STA Odisha recommends the following:

• Take safe halts: Park your vehicle safely and take a short walk to refresh your body and mind.
• Wash your face: Splashing cold water on your face helps re-energize and reset focus during long journeys.
• Rest for a While: Even a brief period of rest can significantly improve alertness and reduce the risk of accidents.
• Stretch and hydrate: Light stretching and proper hydration help combat lethargy.
• Avoid continuous long drives: If possible, share the driving responsibility with another person or take scheduled breaks.