If you drive a lot for work, you might well be familiar with that feeling of fatigue when you’re behind the wheel. It can creep up on you without you realising and the results can be catastrophic.
Being tired when you’re driving raises the risk of a collision, because you’re less aware of what’s happening around you, according to road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist. Your ability to react is compromised if a risky situation develops. It’s why fatigue can be a factor in up to 20% of all road collisions, and up to 25% of fatal and serious crashes.
Drivers don’t simply fall asleep at the wheel without recognisable warning signs of tiredness and distraction. GEM says drivers experience difficulty focusing on the actual driving task, they fidget, yawn constantly and rub their eyes frequently.
But when more serious levels of fatigue set in, drivers could also find their thoughts wandering, their van might drift to the left or right, or even slow down without the operator realising it. They might also find they cannot recall anything that happened in the past few minutes.
“A fatigue-related crash is around 50 per cent more likely to result in death or serious injury, simply because a driver who has fallen asleep at the wheel will be unable to reduce speed or change direction to avoid a collision,” says Neil Worth, GEM chief executive. “The consequences can be devastating.”
Falling asleep at the wheel is easily avoided and it’s vital drivers heed the many warning signs their body will give before they actually nod off.
“At this stage your driving performance is seriously impaired, and it’s vital that you stop somewhere safe as soon as possible,” adds Neil Worth. “A power nap or a caffeine-based drink can provide a short-term fix, but they should never be used as an acceptable substitute for proper rest. If you’re that tired, you must stop and rest properly.”
Top tips to keep alert and awake
Going on a long drive? Follow these five simple tips to reduce the risk of a fatigue-related accident:
- Get a good night’s sleep before setting out on a long journey
- Don’t press on into the night. Avoid driving at times when you would usually be asleep
- Avoid heavy meals on trips, especially at lunchtime, as these can increase sleepiness in the afternoon
- On long journeys, take a break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours or 100 miles. Get out of the car, do some exercise, stretch or walk. If necessary, have a caffeine drink or two to boost your alertness
- You’ll know when fatigue is affecting you. It doesn’t just take you by surprise. So resist the urge to press on, and take a proper break
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