Don't drive tired

Tiredness can kill

Research shows it's impossible to stop ourselves from falling asleep at the wheel. Be aware of how tired you feel before you get in the car. 

It's not just about how much sleep you've had. A long, monotonous drive on a motorway can make you feel tired.

Feeling tired is risky not only because you might fall asleep but also because you react slower. For example, you may not notice stationary traffic ahead, so you don't break in time. 

When you are too tired, you may get home and realise you can't remember the last few miles driven.

Facts about driving and tiredness when you have a medical condition.

What to do if you find yourself getting drowsy

• find a safe place to stop (not a motorway hard shoulder)
• drink two cups of caffeinated coffee and rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes to give the caffeine time to kick in
• have a 20-minute power nap

When you feel alert again, drive on.

Stopping for a nap and drinking a caffeinated drink is a temporary solution. It is better to avoid driving when you are tired. Opening a window, turning the heating to cold or turning the radio up will not help.

This video from the AA shows how easy it is to fall asleep at the wheel.

Stay safe on long journeys

If you have to make a long journey:

• ensure you've had enough sleep - never start a journey tired
• if possible, share the driving on long journeys
• avoid long trips between midnight and 6 am as you are more likely to feel sleepy during this period
• include at least a 20-minute break every two hours