Feeling tired at the wheel can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to spot the signs early, especially on long journeys. This article explains the symptoms to look out for, and the steps you can take to stay alert and drive safely.
Fatigue can affect any driver, especially on long journeys. If you’re disabled or travel with someone who is, it’s important to be aware of how driving tired might affect you on the road.
Tiredness affects a driver’s reaction times and concentration levels. According to road safety charity Brake, 10 to 20% of all crashes are caused by driver fatigue. So it’s crucial to stay aware of your energy levels, take regular breaks and, where needed, let another driver take over.
- How long is it safe to drive for in a day?
- Signs of tiredness while driving
- Can medical conditions affect tiredness while driving?
- Preparing for a long drive
- Tips for staying alert while driving
Remember, you can add or change your drivers in the ‘Insurance cover’ section of your Motability Scheme online account. Click here to log in.
Fatigue can set in for a number of reasons. Like a lack of sleep or driving for too long, to more specific factors such as jetlag, ill health and even certain medications.
How long is it safe to drive for in a day?
The Highway Code states that driving when you’re tired greatly increases your risk of collision. It does not give a set number of hours per day that you’re allowed to drive, but it does explicitly say that you should not begin a journey if you’re tired.
It also recommends that you avoid taking long journeys between midnight and 6am, because this is when your natural alertness is at a minimum.
No matter how long you plan on driving for, you must be on the lookout for symptoms of tiredness. It can help to plan regular times to check in with yourself.
Signs of tiredness while driving
Some common symptoms of driver fatigue include:
- Yawning
- Tired and/or dry eyes
- Daydreaming and/or an inability to concentrate
- Difficulty focusing your vision on the road
- Slow blinks and/or blinking more than usual
- Involuntary head nods
- Bodily aches and pains
- A decline in your driving style, such as slower reaction times, unnecessary changes in speed or drifting out of your lane
If you experience any of these symptoms while driving, make sure you find a safe place to stop as soon as possible.
Some health conditions, such as diabetes, can make you more vulnerable to fatigue while driving. If you are unsure whether your health condition could affect your driving, you should speak to your doctor. You can also check on the government’s website to find out if a health condition affects your driving.
If you develop a medical condition or disability that could impact your ability to drive, you must tell the DVLA. If you do not let them know, you could be fined up to £1000.
If you’re planning a long drive, there are a few things you can do to make the journey easier on yourself and help you avoid driver fatigue:
- Plan your journey to include regular rest breaks, and do not try to drive more than 8 to10 hours a day
- Make sure you eat well, avoid alcohol, and get a good night’s sleep before your journey
- Pack some snacks and plenty of water, to help keep your energy and hydration levels up
- If you take medication, check any instructions or side effects before your journey. You should speak to your doctor or a healthcare professional if you’re unsure
- If travelling with friends or family, consider having someone else with you who can take over the driving if needed
Tips for staying alert while driving
- Open a window to get some fresh air in
- Take regular breaks. The Highway Code recommends that you include 15-minute breaks for every two hours of driving
- Find somewhere safe to take a nap if you start to feel tired
- Drink two cups of coffee and wait for the caffeine to kick in, but still watch out for signs of tiredness
When it comes to driving, you should always stay on the side of caution. By planning your journeys and staying aware of your body’s needs, you’ll have a much smoother and more comfortable drive.
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