- Driver fatigue is linked to thousands of UK collisions each year, with experts warning it is under-reported
- Tired drivers have slower reactions and may fall asleep without warning, increasing crash severity
- Simple steps such as journey planning, good sleep before a trip and regular rehydration breaks can significantly reduce risk
ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to prioritise rest before setting off, as evidence continues to highlight the serious dangers of driving while tired.
Government statistics1 show that driver fatigue is recorded as a contributory factor in around 4% of reported collisions. However, safety experts believe the true figure is much higher, with fatigue potentially playing a role in up to one in five crashes and around a quarter of fatal and serious incidents.
Fatigue-related collisions are also more likely to result in death or serious injury, as drivers who fall asleep at the wheel are unable to brake or take evasive action.
Hot weather can significantly increase the risk of fatigue, especially on long motorway or dual carriageway journeys. Higher temperatures, bright sunshine and stuffy cabins all contribute to drowsiness, dehydration and reduced concentration, particularly for drivers who are already tired or have not rested properly. GEM is reminding motorists that on hot days it is vital to stay hydrated, keep the vehicle well ventilated and build in extra breaks to avoid the added strain that heat can place on the body.
Fatigue-related collisions are also more likely to result in death or serious injury, as drivers who fall asleep at the wheel are unable to brake or take evasive action.
Common early warning signs of fatigue include frequent yawning, difficulty concentrating, drifting within a lane and missing road signs. As tiredness worsens, drivers may experience ‘microsleeps’ – brief, uncontrollable episodes of sleep lasting a few seconds. At 70mph, a vehicle is travel more than 100 metres in just three seconds, meaning even a momentary lapse in attention can have serious consequences.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s Head of Road Safety, said: “A fatigue-related crash is one of the most dangerous scenarios on our roads because the driver may have no opportunity to react at all. These collisions are often high-speed and high-impact, with devastating consequences.
“Fatigue isn’t something that suddenly takes over – it builds gradually, and your body gives clear warning signs. Ignoring those signs can cost lives.
“The key message is simple: if you are tired, you should not be driving. No journey is so important that it’s worth risking lives. Planning ahead, recognising the signs of fatigue and taking timely breaks can make all the difference.”
Plan journeys and stay alert
GEM offers five simple tips to reduce the risk of a fatigue-related collision:
- Get a good night’s sleep before setting out on a long journey.
- Avoid driving at times when you would normally be asleep.
- Steer clear of heavy meals before or during a journey, especially at lunchtime.
- Stay hydrated. Take a break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours or 100 miles of driving; get out, stretch and refresh yourself.
- If you feel tired, stop as soon as it is safe. A short nap and caffeine can help temporarily, but proper rest is essential.
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