So far, many people think that the responsibility for road safety is solely on the driver. Reporting from Detik.com, passengers also have the same responsibility to maintain driving safety.
Juergen Zulley, a sleep researcher and professor of psychology at the University of Regensburg, Germany, said that if the front or rear passengers start to nod off, this will automatically infect and make the driver drowsy too.
Zulley explained that the reason drivers can become sleepy is that the sound of the breathing rhythm and sleeping position of passengers can very likely influence the driver to become drowsy and eventually fall asleep. Especially on long, monotonous trips like on the toll road.
Passengers can see signs of driver fatigue to warn them. When the driver starts to get tired, passengers must tell the driver to rest so they can keep their body fresh.
Passengers are required to maintain attitudes and behavior
The attitude and behavior of passengers is as important as the driver's attitude in maintaining driving safety. Passengers play an important role because they can influence the driver's attitude, both positively and negatively.
For example, a passenger scolds the driver because they think they have made a mistake, thereby provoking emotions on both parties. Drivers also become less alert and unable to anticipate danger if there are passengers in the car who irritate them.
Helping the Driver with Duties
You can play an active role by helping with navigation, answering the phone, warning of dangers ahead and accompanying the driver to stay alert. Little things like preparing a toll card or opening a water bottle are very helpful and keep their attention from the road
Take Care of Driver's Emotions
If you want the driver to focus on the road, you must play a role in minimizing distractions. Don't talk loudly on the phone, change the music at will, or comment on how they drive. Including, don't provoke drivers into violating traffic, such as forcing them onto the shoulder of the road.
Try not to sleep
Invite the driver to chat with a light conversation theme. Offer help, such as finding a suitable music list or reading the navigation on your cell phone. If necessary, change driving during a long trip so that everyone can sleep for a while when fatigue starts to set in.
Children Sit Behind
Place children in the back seat so they don't disturb the driver. Make sure your children also use special child chairs so they are safe on the road. Give them toys or entertainment that provide a sense of calm and not throw tantrums due to boredom.
Warn Driver If Wrong
You have the right to tell the driver if you make a mistake on the road. Or if you see the driver carrying out dangerous aggressive actions such as cutting other people's paths in a violent manner. Don't let you as a passenger become a victim of other people's negligence.
