Driver fatigue is a serious hazard on the road, and it’s something that we should all be aware of. When we’re tired, our reaction time slows down, our judgment becomes impaired, and we’re more likely to make mistakes. This can lead to serious accidents, even if we’re not driving drunk or distracted.
How common is driver fatigue?
According to the Irish Road Safety Authority, driver fatigue is a contributory factor in as many as one in five fatal crashes in Ireland every year. And a recent survey found that 28% of Irish motorists have fallen asleep or nodded off while driving, even if only for a moment.
Who is most at risk?
Certain groups of people are more at risk of driver fatigue than others. These include:
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- Young men
- People who work night shifts
- People who drive for a living, such as commercial drivers
- People with sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea
The following video by the Irish Road Safety Authority is an interview with John Dixon who recounts his experiences as a driver suffering from sleep apnoea.
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