A driver in his car. /
Tiredness can affect drivers and cause an incident on the road
Many drivers suffer from fatigue and tiredness during a trip, something that can have a very negative effect on their driving. It is preferable that those drivers who are very tired do not take the car, since they are more likely to have an accident.
According to the magazine of the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), fatigue is related to 20-30% of traffic accidents, making it an important and dangerous risk factor. The hearing and visual capacity of the driver can be altered. Your movements may be slower and less effective. All these factors can influence the driver’s reaction time to any unforeseen event. For this reason before making a trip it is recommended that you follow a series of tips.
Tips to avoid fatigue behind the wheel
1. Sleep. It seems silly, but it is essential to sleep at least 7 hours before embarking on a trip. It is also not recommended to start after a day’s work.
2. Vehicle temperature. In summer, a large number of trips are undertaken with very high temperatures and, on top of that, enduring hours of travel with the sun on your face, so it is advisable to regulate the temperature of the vehicle. Try to maintain a comfortable temperature, around 24 degrees, and ventilate the car to avoid dryness inside.
3. Know the symptoms of fatigue. Physical discomfort, constant blinking, cramps, driving errors, committing automatisms without noticing the traffic situation.
4. Stops during the journey. If you are going to make a long trip, it is important to stop and rest every 2 hours or every 200 kilometers.
5. Hydrate. It is essential to stay hydrated (water or soft drinks). The lack of fluids causes a reduction in attention, headache and muscle fatigue.
6. Do not drink alcohol. The most advisable thing is not to drink a drop of alcohol if you are going to take the car, in addition, you should consult a doctor if you can drive even if you are taking some medication.
