Fatigue
Driver sleepiness is estimated to account for around one fifth of accidents on major roads, and is responsible for around 300 deaths per year.
Factors that can increase the risk of a driver being involved in a tiredness-related crash should be taken into account when developing policies to prevent driver tiredness.
These factors include:
- Time of day: the most likely times to fall asleep are midnight to 6am and 2pm to 4pm.
- Shifts: drivers who work long shifts are more likely to suffer fatigue.
- Rest breaks: drivers should take a break of 15 minutes every 2 hours or sooner if feeling tired.
- Stress: tiredness is a typical symptom of stress resulting from work or home life pressures.
- Lack of sleep - drivers may suffer lack of sleep due to: Disturbed sleep: new baby, stress, domestic problems, sleep disorders.
- Irregular sleep patterns: this is a particular problem for drivers who switch regularly from day to night shifts without sufficient time for their body clock to adjust.
- Insufficient rest periods: long jobs, long commutes or drivers moonlighting in another job or hobby.
- Sleep disorders such as Sleep Apnoea.
- Medication: Some prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs can cause drowsiness and impaired alertness. Check for side-effects on the package.
- Vehicle engineering: modern vehicles are quiet and comfortable, inviting drivers to relax when driving. Driving can have a lulling effect particularly in vehicles fitted with comfort enhancing features such as cruise control.
For more information please visit the DfT website
