Ever skip water before a drive to avoid bathroom stops? Think again—driving dehydrated is nearly as risky as driving under the influence, according to scientific research.
Researchers tested this in a driving simulator with two-hour sessions. Participants drank about a quarter-liter of water per hour in the first test. In the second, they got just one sip per hour.
Thirst leads to more driving errors
Dehydrated drivers made 101 mistakes versus 47 when hydrated. These included late braking, veering off course, and crossing solid lines.
Why does this happen? Dehydration impairs brain function, reducing alertness, focus, concentration, and reaction times. This affects not just driving but any task requiring sharp cognition, like work at your desk. Time for a water break.
Spotting dehydration: 3 key signs you're not drinking enough.
