Driving isn’t a right, it’s a privilege and along with that privilege comes certain responsibilities. Today, more than ever, a major responsibility has proven itself to be that drivers are well rested before they take to the roads, whether returning from a holiday, or simply on a short trip.

It is estimated that tiredness behind the wheel caused more than 25 percent of the total fatal crashes (451) on Victorian roads during 2001. Many drivers are careful to avoid drink-driving, however, they often forget that fatigued driving can be just as dangerous; being awake for 17 hours can have the same affect on a persons driving ability as having a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.05.

Here are some helpful tips to protect yourself from having a fatigue-related crash:

  • Make sure you regularly get enough sleep

  • Be aware of the fatigue high crash risk when driving between 1am and 6am

  • Do not start a long trip after a long day’s work

  • Plan your trip so you can take regular breaks

  • Seek medical advice if you often feel sleepy

  • Be aware of the effects of any medication taken

Once you’re on the road:

  • Take regular rest breaks to help keep you alert, but if you feel tired, the only way to keep safe is to stop and sleep

  • Eat proper and well balanced meals, preferably at your normal meal times

  • If you feel tired when driving, take a powernap (sleep for 15 to 30 minutes) but allow time to recover from your sleep before commencing driving

The myth is often that drivers in metropolitan Melbourne are less in danger of fatigue and fatigue related crashes as drivers in the country and on long abandoned roads. From the 2001 road toll, however, it is clear that anyone can be affected.

The information used was supplied by the Royal Automotive Club of Victoria.