Driver fatigue is another type of impaired driving. Lack of sleep is a major cause of crashes. One in five crashes that results in a death is caused by a driver that is drowsy or has fallen asleep while driving.
There are a number of things you can do to make sure you don’t drive while tired:
- Plan ahead – Allow enough time to get to your destination and get plenty of sleep the night before
- Share the driving – Have someone else drive while you rest
- Take a break – Every 2 hours stop – go for a walk, change drivers or take a nap
- Avoid night driving – Don’t drive during your regular sleep time, usually between midnight and 6 am
- Break up your trip – Shorten the amount of driving each day
- Avoid alcohol – Alcohol will make you sleepier
- Address health issues – Check medications as they may cause drowsiness
- While driving – Open the window, talk to a passenger, turn on the air conditioner or radio
Be aware of the signs of driver fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Constant yawning
- Slowed reactions
- Sore or heavy eyes
- Nodding off
- Impatience
- Poor concentration
- Feeling drowsy
- Drifting into another lane or onto the shoulder
- Slow reactions
- Inconsistent speed
- Daydreaming
Fatigue and age
There are normal, age-related changes in the amount of sleep, sleep patterns and sleep disorders that increase with age.
Teen Drivers – There is evidence that teens do not get enough sleep. A teen’s lack of sleep may increase their risk of a crash. Ensure your teen does not drive when they are tired.
Older Drivers – The ability of healthy older adults to initiate and maintain a deep sleep decreases with age. This can cause fatigue and become a serious risk for older drivers.
Additional resources:
- How to Avoid Drowsy Driving – AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
