Fatigue

Fatigue

Drowsy Driving

Fatigue and tiredness both are equally dangerous as far as driving is concerned, however the effect varies. Fatigues is known as impairment due to prolonged physical or mental work whereas the Tiredness may be defined as the likelihood of falling asleep. To treat fatigue rest is required (not necessarily sleep) and to treat tiredness sleep is required as only rest is not sufficient to overcome tiredness. Fatigue is the most common cause of road accidents. Severity of fatigue related accidents and fatality is higher as compared to non-fatigue related accidents. Fatigue reduces the reaction time, concentration, alertness and imposes negative effect on driving. Most of the fatigue related accident happens during early morning hours such as 2 to 4 am or 6 to 7 am or during the evening between 6 to 7 pm.

Management of Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the important phenomenon and cause of road crashes. Commercial long-haul drivers are usually suffer from fatigue and sleeplessness. To manage fatigue, it is recommended that after every three to four hours of drive a 15 minutes break should be taken from driving. During the break the following activities can be done to do away fatigue:

• Drink tea or coffee
• Wash face from cold water
• Take a nap

Ways to Delay the Tiredness

After working for certain hours, our body demands rest. To overcome tiredness it is required that a person should have sound sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours. Lack of insufficient sleep may lead to the following effects on driving behaviour:

• Lack of concentration
• Slower reaction time
• Feel restless, not able to think properly
• Uncontrolled speed

However, one cannot stop tiredness but we can delay it for some time by doing the following activities as depicted below:

• Stop the vehicle at a safe place or at a wayside amenity.
• Get out of the vehicle and walk for a while.
• If you are feeling drowsy, wash your face with cold water.
• Have some light refreshment like tea or coffee.
• If you feel it is not possible to drive due to tiredness, take a small nap.