Fatigue is thought to be one of the biggest killers on Australian roads, rivalling the effects of speed, drugs and alcohol. But the full extent of its role is not really known - unlike alchol and drugs, fatigue can't be tested for in post-mortems. This is the reason for the big difference between the lowest and highest estimates of the role of fatigue in the Australian road toll.
There are many factors that can cause fatigue whilst driving:-
1. Lack of sleep
2. Time of day driving when you're normally asleep (eg. 12.00 am - 6.00 am this is when our biological clock makes us feel tired)
3. Length of time driving
4. Sleeping disorders, such as sleep apnoea.
5. Taking drugs or driving under the influence of alcohol.
How to look for fatigue:-
- contact yawning
- heavy of sore eyes
- trouble keeping head straight
- blurred vision
- letting your vehicle drift across the road
- daydreaming
- impatience
NOTE: Fatigue affects you in the same way as alcohol does.
How to manage fatigue:-
- Avoid driving between 12.00 am - 6.00 am as this is normal sleep time for most people
- If feeling sleepy take a nap
- Take regular breaks
- Avoid alcohol and medicines that may cause drowsiness
- Plan your travel goals realistically
- Avoid fatty foods whilst driving, eat a well balanced meal
- Aim not to travel more than 8-10 hours a day
Common myths to cure driving fatigue:-
- Consume coffee, it lasts only a short period of time
- I am a sensible driver - unfortunately you may misjudge your surroundings leading to slow information process and slow reaction time
- Playing loud music and fresh air has a short term effect.
THE ONLY CURE FOR FATIGUE IS SLEEP!