Awareness and education alongside practical implementation and quality enforcement will means fewer road fatalities.
Fatigue
It is defined as a lack of physical strength, a feeling of being tired or exhausted, that causes difficulty in moving the arms, legs and other muscles. It is a given fact that many an accident, especially during long-distance driving, is caused by driver fatigue.
Probable causes
• Lack of exercise
• Stress in the work environment
• Poor sleeping habits
• Depression
• Boredom or monotonous working conditions
• Colds and flu sometimes cause fatigue.
Remedies for fatigue during long trips
• The driver should stop for a 10-minute rest after each 2-hour driving period
• Always get a good night’s sleep before you drive
• Don’t drive when you are tired – rather find a safe place to stop and rest
• Make sure you get plenty of fresh air while you drive
• Don’t depend on coffee or drugs to keep you awake
• Keep your eyes moving by regularly checking your mirrors, speed and the road ahead
• In winter, limit the use of the heater in the cars as it will make you sleepy
• Switch the cabin light off when driving as having the light switched on will strain your eyes and distorts your vision.
Rest before you drive to prevent you from falling asleep while you drive.
