New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is feeling very sleepy during a long road trip. They pull over at a rest stop to take a short nap. How long should a power nap typically be to be most effective in combating drowsy driving?
- A20-30 minutes
- B90 minutes or more
- C45-60 minutes
- D5-10 minutes
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 20-30 minutes
Research suggests that a power nap of 20-30 minutes is ideal for combating drowsiness, as it provides restorative sleep without entering deep sleep cycles, which can lead to grogginess upon waking (sleep inertia). Naps shorter than 20 minutes may not be as effective, and longer naps can cause grogginess.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Naps of 90 minutes or more are full sleep cycles and will likely result in significant grogginess if the driver needs to resume driving immediately.
- C. Naps of this length can lead to entering deeper sleep stages, resulting in 'sleep inertia' or grogginess upon waking.
- D. While better than nothing, 5-10 minutes is often too short for significant restoration.
Effective Power Nap Duration
To combat drowsy driving, a power nap of 20-30 minutes is recommended to refresh without causing post-nap grogginess.
- Ideal duration: 20-30 minutes.
- Avoids deep sleep cycles.
- Helps prevent 'sleep inertia' (grogginess).
Memory trick: Tired behind the wheel? Nap for a 'twenty-thirty' to get back to alert.