Thousands of crashes are caused by tired drivers. They are most likely to happen:
On long journeys on monotonous roads, such as
motorways
Between 2:00 am and 6:00 am
Between 2:00 pm and 4 pm (especially after eating,
or drinking even one alcoholic drink)
After having less sleep than normal
After drinking alcohol
If taking medicines that cause drowsiness
On journeys home after night shifts; Sleepiness
reduces reaction time, alertness, concentration and decision making, all
crucial driving skills.
Tired drivers are much more likely to have an accident,
and the crash is likely to be severe because a drowsy or sleeping driver does
not usually brake or swerve before the impact.
Plan Your Journey
A planned journey reduces the risk of drowsiness and
falling asleep at the wheel, and is more efficient, saving you time, stress and
money.
Time
Consider how long the journey will take, including time for rest breaks and unexpected delays.
Plan Your Route
Write out a route plan that you can easily read. Check
for roadworks or likely traffic jams, and if possible, plan an alternative route
to avoid any major delays. Plan whereto stop for regular rest breaks (every two
hours, or sooner if feeling tired, for at least 15 to 20 minutes).
Second Driver
If possible, share the driving with a second driver.
Sleep
Try not to stay up late or reduce your normal sleep before a long journey.
Alcohol
Alcohol stays in the body for several hours and will make you more sleepy, so avoid having even one drink.
Medicines
If you are taking any medication, check whether it causes drowsiness. If it does, ask
your doctor or pharmacist for an alternative that does not cause drowsiness.
Check Your Vehicle
Make sure everything’s working properly, especially the tyres, lights, windscreen wipers, and all fluid levels.
If You Begin to Feel Tired
If you start to feel sleepy while driving, this means
that you are more likely to crash. Many drivers try to stay awake by turning up
the air conditioning, winding down the window,listening to the radio, talking or
singing. These will only work for a few minutes, to give you time to find
somewhere safe to stop.
They will not stop you falling asleep.
If you begin to feel tired:
Do not try to complete the journey (you might never
arrive)
Find somewhere safe to stop (not the hard shoulder)
Drink one or two cups of strong coffee or other
high caffeine drinks
Take a nap of about 15 minutes
But remember, sleep is the only cure for tiredness.
So, if necessary, find somewhere safe to stay overnight.
I confirm I have read the factsheet 'Safe Driving for Work - Planning a Safer Journey'.
All of the documents can be obtained from us in a word format, so that they can be personalised and edited to suit your company or business. This service is free of charge, on request or phone 01908 262662.
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