Driver tiredness & fatigue
You should not drive while tired or fatigued. Drivers who are suffering from a lack of sleep are a danger to themselves and other road users.
If you are tired and fighting sleep, you are likely to experience 'micro sleeps'.
These episodes can last up to 10 seconds and can be experienced even when
your eyes are open.
During a micro-sleep of even four seconds, your car can travel 110 metres (more than the length of a football pitch) without you being in control of your vehicle.
In the past, driving when tired has resulted in the driver falling asleep, losing control of the vehicle, and causing serious injuries and fatalities.
Driving while tired or fatigued is not illegal. However, if you lose control of your
vehicle and cause a crash you will be prosecuted.
Advice for sleepy drivers:
- Never drive if you are fighting sleep,
- Stop and take a nap for 15 minutes (set the alarm on your mobile phone),
- To really make the most of your break, take a caffeine drink before the
nap (150 mg of caffeine, for example, 2 cups of coffee), - After the nap, get some fresh air and stretch your legs,
By following all of the above advice you should be able to drive for another hour or more.
- You must be in control of your vehicle at all times.
- You must be able to stop your vehicle safely at all times.
REMEMBER If you are suffering from a serious lack of sleep the only cure is sleep.