We can all contribute to enhancing road safety by understanding driver fatigue. Not only can it make us more aware of when we’re getting tired behind the wheel, but it can help us take steps to prevent fatigue before it happens.

Driver fatigue is a serious yet often underestimated threat to road safety. With the pace of modern life, more people are driving while tired, unaware of the significant risks this poses to themselves and others.

Hendy Car & Van Store has pulled together an excellent guide for understanding driver fatigue, outlined in the article below.

As noted in the guide, fatigue may be responsible for up to 20% of road accidents, a statistic that highlights the importance of understanding and addressing this issue.

We’ve outlined some of the key points to recognise and prevent driver fatigue from the guide and outlined the role that technology can play to combat it. By staying alert and rested, you not only protect yourself but also everyone else on the road.

What causes driver fatigue?

Driver fatigue can stem from a range of preventable and unpreventable factors, with sleep deprivation being one of the most common. When drivers don’t get enough sleep, they are more likely to experience lapses in concentration, slower reaction times, and impaired judgment. The circadian rhythm, which dictates our sleep-wake cycle, also plays a crucial role. For instance, driving during late night or early morning hours, when the body naturally expects to be asleep, can increase the risk of fatigue.

Long working hours and demanding jobs are other significant contributors. Drivers who work shifts or have irregular schedules are particularly vulnerable to fatigue. Additionally, the monotony of long drives, especially on highways, can lull drivers into a state of drowsiness.

Medical conditions such as sleep apnoea, diabetes, depression, anxiety and even coeliac disease can also be a contributing factor and should not be overlooked. Similarly, lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise and drug and alcohol use can have an effect on tiredness.

Often it can be a combination of factors, creating a perfect storm and leading to accidents that could otherwise be avoided.

Recognising the signs of fatigue

One of the challenges in addressing driver fatigue is that its symptoms can be subtle and easy to dismiss. Common signs include frequent yawning, blinking, heavy eyelids, difficulty concentrating, and drifting in and out of lanes. Microsleeps—brief moments of sleep that last only a few seconds—are particularly dangerous because they can occur without the driver realising it, leading to a complete loss of control over the vehicle.

Other warning signs include missing turns or exits, making marginal mistakes in depth perception, feeling irritable or restless, and struggling to keep your head up. It’s crucial for drivers to pay attention to these signs and take them seriously. Ignoring them can lead to severe consequences, not just for the driver but for everyone on the road.

Preventing driver fatigue

Taking proactive steps to prevent fatigue is often the best approach. Unsurprisingly, one of the most effective strategies is ensuring you get enough sleep before a long drive. Experts recommend at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep per night. Some techniques to help you get quality rest include implementing a regular sleep routine, creating a conducive sleeping environment and making your bed comfortable.

If you’re planning a long journey, it’s important to stay hydrated and schedule regular breaks – ideally, every 2 or 3 hours – to rest and recharge. You should also look at your physical health and diet to ensure you are getting the right types of nutrients needed to fuel your body and boost your energy levels.

Another useful tip is to avoid driving during times when you’d normally be asleep. If possible, plan your trips during the day when you’re naturally more alert. If you find yourself getting tired, pull over and rest. It might feel inconvenient at the moment, but it’s far better to arrive late than to risk an accident.

The role of technology

Advancements in vehicle technology are also playing a role in combating driver fatigue. Many modern cars are equipped with systems that monitor driver behaviour and detect signs of drowsiness. These systems can alert the driver with visual, auditory and/or haptic warnings, prompting them to take a break.

Similarly, solutions like Guardian can be retrospectively installed into heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses, which is particularly important. As noted in the guide, around 40% of sleep-related accidents involve commercial drivers.

Conclusion: Stay Awake, Stay Alive

Driver fatigue is a critical road safety issue that demands attention. By understanding its causes, recognising the warning signs, and taking proactive steps to prevent it, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents. The message is simple: stay awake, stay alive. Prioritising rest and recognising when you’re too tired to drive can save lives – yours and others.

For more in-depth information on driver fatigue and how to stay safe on the road, you can view Hendy Car & Van Store’s essential road safety guide for understanding driver fatigue.