Road safety and tiredness

Drivers don’t fall asleep without warning or prior sleepiness so look out for the signs. Don’t try and ‘fight off’ sleep, as no amount of will power can keep you awake.

To minimise the risk of falling asleep at the wheel:

• Plan to stop for a 15 minute break every two hours on a long journey
• Try to get a good night’s sleep before starting a long drive
• Share the driving if possible
• Never start a long trip if you’re already feeling tired
• Avoid driving for long distances after a long day’s work
• Don’t drive after you’ve been drinking alcohol
• Don’t drive if you’re taking medicines that make you feel tired (check the instructions on the packet or bottle for their effects)
• Avoid making long trips between midnight and 6am – this is particularly risky as it’s when your natural alertness is low because your ‘body clock’ is in a daily trough.

If you do get tired while on a journey you should:

• Stop in a safe place – if you’re on the motorway, don’t stop on the hard shoulder, take the next exit and find somewhere safe to park or stop at the next motorway service area
• Once you’ve stopped, drink a cup or two of strong coffee (or high caffeine drink), and allow time for the caffeine to kick-in - at least 15 minutes.

If you take a short nap make sure you’re fully awake before you start driving again.

Getting out of your car for a walk will only have a limited effect.  Opening the window and/or turning on the radio will have little or no effect on your tiredness.

For more information visit www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/advice/drivertiredness.htm