We’ve all been there, right? You hit snooze one too many times, rush through getting the kids ready for school, and before you know it, you’re flying out the door with a travel mug of coffee in hand. Maybe you even stop for a second (or third) cup on the way to work. After all, caffeine is our secret weapon for surviving those hectic mornings!

But here’s a wake-up call that has nothing to do with coffee: that extra jolt you’re relying on might actually be making you a less safe driver.

The Caffeine Overload Epidemic

Americans are drinking more coffee than ever before, and each cup is stronger than what our parents used to drink. Add in the explosion of energy drinks over the past decade, and many of us are running on serious caffeine overload without even realizing it.

A recent investigation by The Telegraph uncovered some eye-opening research about how too much caffeine affects our ability to drive safely. And as moms who are constantly shuttling kids to soccer practice, running work errands, and handling the daily carpool, this is information we really need to hear.

When “Just One More Cup” Becomes a Safety Issue

Sure, that first cup of coffee can help shake off the morning grogginess and make you feel more alert behind the wheel. But there’s a tipping point where more caffeine actually works against you. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Your Decision-Making Takes a Hit

When you’re truly sleep-deprived, adding more caffeine is like putting a band-aid on a broken bone. Instead of helping, it can make you anxious and mess with your judgment. You might think you’re fine to drive, but your brain isn’t processing information the way it should. That split-second decision about whether to merge or when to brake? Compromised.

2. The Jitters Are Real (and Dangerous)

Ever notice your hands shaking after too much coffee? That’s your overstimulated nervous system talking. When you’re gripping the steering wheel with trembling hands or your leg is jittery on the gas pedal, you lose that smooth, controlled driving you need—especially in stop-and-go traffic or when parallel parking at your kid’s school.

3. Your Reaction Time Actually Slows Down

Wait, what? Isn’t caffeine supposed to make you more alert? Here’s the thing: a little caffeine does boost alertness. But when you overdo it, you create a state of over-arousal that actually delays your reaction time. So when that car in front of you suddenly hits the brakes, your caffeinated brain might be a split-second slower to respond.

4. Everything Gets Blurry

Too much caffeine can cause your eye muscles to twitch and spasm, leading to rapid blinking and blurred vision. Imagine trying to read that street sign or spot your kid waiting at the curb when your eyes won’t cooperate. Not exactly the advantage you were looking for in your morning cup.

5. Withdrawal Headaches at the Worst Times

If you’re a daily coffee drinker (guilty!), your body gets used to those constricted blood vessels in your brain. When your caffeine levels drop—like during your afternoon drive to pick up the kids—hello, withdrawal headache. And we all know that driving with a pounding headache is miserable and unsafe.

So What’s a Tired Mom to Do?

Look, we’re not saying you need to give up your beloved coffee. (Let’s be realistic here!) But it’s worth being mindful about how much you’re consuming, especially before driving.

Here are some safer alternatives for those exhausting mornings:

• Actually get some sleep (easier said than done, we know)
• If you’re truly drowsy, pull over for a 20-minute power nap instead of reaching for another cup
• Stay hydrated with water throughout the day
• Limit yourself to 1-2 cups of coffee, especially before long drives
• Pay attention to how your body feels—shaky hands and blurry vision are red flags

The Bottom Line

Your morning coffee run might be a cherished ritual, but your safety—and your kids’ safety—matters more. Next time you’re tempted to grab that extra-large latte before the school run, ask yourself: am I actually tired, or just caffeinated and overwhelmed?

Sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves and our families is to recognize when we need real rest, not just another cup of coffee.

Stay safe out there, Froggy listeners! And remember, if you’re too tired to drive safely, there’s no shame in asking for help or taking a quick break.

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Source: The Telegraph – Article on caffeine’s effects on driving safety

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What’s your coffee limit before you start feeling the jitters? Share your thoughts with us on social media or call in during our morning show! And for more tips on staying safe on the road, check out our other safety articles.