Health Factors
There are a number of medical factors that can prevent you from getting the long
periods of sleep that you need to feel refreshed and alert.
If you had enough sleep during the night but you still feel tired and drowsy during the
day you should consult your doctor. Look after your health and fitness. The healthier
and fitter you are, the better you will sleep and the more alert you will be when driving.
Don’t take stimulant drugs to keep you awake – these only delay sleep. When they
wear off there can be a sudden onset of sleepiness, which is very dangerous, especially
if you are driving.
1.5.3 What are the warning signs of driver fatigue?
There are a number of warning signs to indicate that you are becoming too tired to
drive safely. Some of the warning signs are:
n you keep yawning; n you start hallucinating;
n your eyes feel sore or heavy; n your reactions seem slow; or
n you start daydreaming and not n your driving speed increases or
concentrating on your driving; decreases unintentionally.
n your vehicle wanders over the road;
Be honest with yourself. If you have any of these warning signs while you are driving,
stop immediately and take a break.
1.5.4 Ways to reduce driver fatigue
Here are some tips to help you keep alert at the wheel:
n get plenty of sleep before you start driving on long trips;
n provide adequate time for sleep, rest and food during long trips;
n take regular breaks (at least every two hours) to walk and have a stretch;
n get fresh air into your vehicle (smoke and stale air can contribute to drowsiness); and
n learn to recognise the signs of sleepiness and pull over as soon as possible
for a short break.
once fatigue sets in, there is nothing you can do about it except stop immediately and
take a break or a nap.