Fatigue
fatalities in 2018 were fatigue related
.5 hours or more of sleep per night is recommended to avoid fatigued driving
% of fatigue-related fatalities in 2018 occurred in regional WA
hours - the time between 1 am and 6 am is the most risky for fatigue related accidents
Effects of fatigue
As a driver, fatigue can cause you several problems including:
- slowing your reactions and decisions;
- decreasing your tolerance for other road users;
- poor lane tracking and maintenance of speed; and
- decreasing your alertness
Warning signs
Early danger signs of fatigue include:
- wandering thoughts;
- missing a gear, road sign or exit;
- slowing unintentionally;
- braking too late;
If you are driving, you should get off the road if you:
- are yawning;
- are blinking more than usual;
- are having trouble keeping your head up;
- notice your eyes closing for a moment or going out of focus; and
- forget driving the last few kilometres.
Driving long distances
Remember to get plenty of rest the night before a long trip. You should not be driving if you feel tired.
After driving for long periods, you should:
- swap drivers where possible;
- stop for a break or coffee;
- stop to have a short sleep.