Driver tiredness causing problems

10/07/2014

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As many as one in three drives have fallen asleep at the wheel at some stage in their driving career, a study has revealed.

U.K road safety charity brake carried out the survey and the results are a startling reality to what can happen on the road.

Working drivers are particularly at risk, because they typically spend longer hours at the wheel. Nearly half of tiredness-related crashes involve someone driving a commercial vehicle, according to DfT (Department of Transport) figures.

"The fact that so many drivers – especially men – have head-nodded at the wheel is horrifying," says Julie Townsend, Brake's deputy chief executive.

"We need all drivers to wake up to the fact that 'head nodding' is falling asleep, and can easily lead to catastrophe. But it can, of course be prevented," she continues.

"Brake urges all drivers to pledge to get a good night's sleep before driving, take breaks every two hours, and never try to 'plough on' when they're tired, because sleep can ensue so quickly."