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Driver Fatigue

Fatigue - the facts

Fatigue is not just about feeling sleepy. It can also feel like heaviness, brain fog, trouble concentrating, or not quite feeling fully switched on.

Fatigue is a major factor in road crashes. Driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol.

The gist of it
  • If a driver has not had enough sleep, or is driving at a time they would normally be asleep, fatigue can seriously affect the safety of the trip.
  • Fatigue crashes are often very serious because a sleeping driver cannot brake, steer, or react before the crash
  • Circadian rhythms are our in-built body clock that determine when we’re at our most alert, and most sleepy. Generally, humans are programmed to feel very sleepy between 2am and 4am, and then again between 2pm and 4pm. Sleep-related car crashes peak during these times.

The Issue - Fatigue effects core skills needed for driving.

  • attention and concentration
  • reaction times
  • recognising risks on the road
  • controlling speed
  • controlling the vehicle and staying within a lane

Warning signs - It is important for drivers to recognise the signs of fatigue and pull over safely before it becomes dangerous.

  • drifting within a lane or across lane lines
  • speeding up or slowing down without noticing
  • yawning or head nodding
  • feeling drowsy or having heavy eyelids
  • blinking more than usual
  • feeling restless or bored
  • microsleeps - very brief periods of sleep that may last only a few seconds

Who's at risk - Fatigue can affect any driver, including experienced drivers. Some drivers may be at greater risk because of their lifestyle, work, health, or sleep habits.

  • Shift workers may have disrupted sleep patterns, which can increase the risk of fatigue
  • Young people are often at a stage of life that includes late nights, irregular sleep, and driving at unusual times
  • People working long hours or multiple jobs may be more likely to experience fatigue

Fatigue is a major factor in many road crashes. Fatigue-related crashes are often very serious because drivers may react too slowly — or not react at all — before the crash.

Even so, many drivers still believe they can push through the warning signs of fatigue.

There are still many common myths about driver fatigue, but the facts clearly show the risks.

Myth vs Fact

Fact

Fatigue can affect driving on trips of any length. Slower reactions and poor concentration can be just as dangerous on a short trip as a long one. Many fatigue-related crashes happen within 25 kilometres of the start of the journey.

Fact

Even one night with less sleep than usual can affect reaction times, concentration, mood, memory, and alertness.

Fact

Loud music, fresh air, and open windows may help a person feel more alert for a short time, but they do not stop fatigue. If a driver is struggling to stay awake, the safest option is to stop and rest or change plans.

Safety Checklist

Here are a few things you can do to help manage driver fatigue.

  1. Get enough sleep regularly. Going without enough sleep for several nights in a row can lead to a sleep debt. If that debt becomes too large, the brain may briefly fall asleep for a few seconds at a time, known as microsleeps.
  2. Avoid driving at times you would normally be asleep. This includes late nights after a full day of work or study, and very early mornings
  3. Learn to recognise your own signs of fatigue. Review the warning signs listed above.
  4. Take regular breaks on long trips. A break at least every two hours is recommended
  5. Share the driving if possible.
  6. Some medications can cause drowsiness or fatigue. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist if unsure how a medication may affect driving.
  7. If concentration starts to fade, pull over somewhere safe and rest.
  8. Have a backup plan before starting a long trip. Plan places to stop, swap drivers, or rest if needed.

You always know when it’s been a powerful experience for students when I receive emails from their parents.  I was so glad to hear that the driving conversations progressed from RYDA to the dinner table. We will definitely be signing up for next year.

Teacher - Wellbeing Leader
Firbank Grammar