The dangers of driver fatigue this festive season
Fatigue is estimated to be a contributory factor in up to 20% of road collisions. These types of crashes tend to be high speed impacts resulting in death or serious injury, because a driver who has fallen asleep cannot brake or swerve.
Sleepiness reduces reaction time, a critical element of safe driving, and also reduces alertness and concentration. The ability to perform attention-based activities, such as driving or riding is impaired and decision making can be badly affected, as information cannot be quickly processed by a person who is tired.
Drivers and riders will be aware that they are feeling sleepy, and must make a conscious decision to stop for a rest. Ignoring or underestimating the risks of continuing a journey when tired is naive and irresponsible.
Crashes caused by tired drivers are most likely to happen:
- on long journeys on monotonous roads, such as motorways
- between 2am and 6am
- between 2pm and 4pm (especially after eating, or taking even one alcoholic drink)
- after having less sleep than normal
- after drinking alcohol/taking drugs
- if taking medicines that cause drowsiness
- after long working hours or on journeys home after long shifts, especially night shifts
Most methods drivers use to try to keep themselves awake and alert when driving are ineffective, and should only be regarded as emergency measures to allow the driver time to find somewhere safe to stop. Drinking at least 150 mg of caffeine and taking a nap of around 15 minutes are the only measures that help to reduce sleepiness, for a temporary period.
Plan your Christmas journey to include regular rest breaks, at least 15 minutes every two hours.
At this time of year especially, drivers and motorcyclists may be making journeys in the early hours or late at night. Follow our advice to never drive or ride when feeling sleepy, or if you have had little sleep in the previous 24 hours.