How to avoid driver fatigue
Results from RACQ’s latest Annual Road Safety Survey have revealed more than a third (37%) of Queenslanders admit to driving tired or driving while having trouble staying awake.
Often labelled the ‘hidden killer’, getting behind the wheel while fatigued is one of the five major causes of death on Queensland roads.
The Club’s Coaching and Development Officer Tiffany Boyd said the survey produced concerning results amongst our youngest road users.
“Of those who admitted to driving fatigued, 74% were aged 18-24 years of age,” Ms Boyd said.
“Each year, we continue to see young people over-represented in the road toll.
“It’s important for our young road users to understand their actions behind the wheel can have fatal consequences.
“We want all Queenslanders to prioritise the task of driving, which means planning ahead to ensure they’re well rested before beginning their journey.”
RACQ’s findings also highlighted the majority of drivers continue driving even if they felt tired and their destination was less than 60 minutes away.
Ms Boyd said there is no quick fix for reducing fatigue.
"Turning up the music, drinking coffee or energy drinks, or winding down the windows is like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound; these aren't viable solutions to help manage fatigue,” she said.
“The only cure or preventative measure for fatigue is sleep.
“It’s essential for drivers to plan ahead, ensure they’ve had plenty of sleep before getting behind the wheel, and if they are driving for a longer period of time to stop at least every two hours.”
The best way to avoid driver fatigue is to plan ahead:
- Organise your route before you begin your trip, including locations for rest stops. For the latest information on road conditions, click here.
- Make sure you are well-rested before you leave.
- Schedule rest stops every two hours, taking a minimum 15-minute break. Where possible, consider alternating drivers.
- Ensure you are well-fed and well-hydrated. It may be helpful to pack snacks for the trip.
- Don’t drive more than eight to ten hours in a day.
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