How to Identify And Avoid Driving Fatigue: Cars Guide

Understanding The Causes Of Driving Fatigue

• Lack of Sleep: The most common cause of driving fatigue is inadequate sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest the night before a long drive.
• Extended Hours of Driving: Prolonged driving without breaks can lead to fatigue. Plan regular rest stops, ideally every 2 hours, to keep yourself fresh.
• Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Traveling during your usual sleep hours can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Plan long journeys when you're typically awake to minimise fatigue.
• Medications: Some medications can induce drowsiness. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider regarding the effects of your medications on your driving.

Signs Of Driving Fatigue

• Yawning and Frequent Blinking: Excessive yawning and frequent blinking may indicate fatigue setting in.
• Difficulty Focusing: Trouble keeping your eyes on the road or missing road signs can be a sign of fatigue.
• Drifting or Weaving: If you find yourself drifting in your lane or unintentionally weaving between lanes, it's time to pull over.
• Daydreaming: Losing track of time, not recalling the past few kilometres, or excessive daydreaming while driving can be a symptom of fatigue.

 

Effective Strategies To Avoid Driving Fatigue

• Get Adequate Sleep: Ensure you're well-rested before your journey. A good night's sleep will significantly reduce the risk of fatigue during your drive.
• Plan Your Journey: Break your trip into manageable segments with scheduled rest stops. Aim to rest for at least 15 minutes every 2 hours.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue. Keep a bottle of water within reach and sip regularly during your drive.
• Avoid Heavy Meals: Large, heavy meals can make you feel lethargic. Opt for light, healthy snacks during your journey.
• Travel During Your Prime Time: Whenever possible, plan your trip during your body's natural wakeful hours.
• Share the Drive: If you have company, take turns driving. Sharing driving duties reduces the chances of fatigue.
• Listen to Engaging Music or Audiobooks: Stimulating music or engaging audiobooks can help maintain alertness.
• Use Air Conditioning: A comfortably cool environment can keep you more alert than a warm or stuffy car.
• Avoid Medications with Drowsy Side Effects: Consult your doctor about medication side effects and adjust your driving schedule accordingly.
• Pull Over and Rest: If you experience any signs of fatigue, pull over at the next safe opportunity. A short nap or break can make a world of difference.

Advanced Safety Features

With the rising popularity of ADAS in India, many manufacturers are now equipping their cars and SUVs with advanced safety features to help prevent driving fatigue-related accidents. Here are some that you should consider:

• Lane Departure Warning: The lane departure warning feature alerts you when your car begins to drift out of its lane, helping you stay on the road.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Adaptive cruise control can help you maintain a safe following distance and prevent fatigue-related accidents.
• Fatigue Detection Systems: These systems monitor your driving behavior for signs of fatigue and recommend rest when necessary.
• Autonomous Emergency Braking: This feature can automatically apply the brakes in emergency situations, potentially preventing an accident if you're too fatigued to react in time.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: This feature alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, reducing the need for sudden, fatiguing lane changes.

By investing in a car or SUV with these features, you can significantly reduce the risk of driving fatigue.

Driving fatigue is a common but highly preventable danger on the road. By understanding its causes, recognising the signs, and implementing strategies to avoid fatigue, you can ensure your safety and that of others during long journeys. Additionally, consider purchasing a car or SUV with ADAS designed to mitigate the risks associated with driving fatigue. Stay alert, stay safe, and enjoy your travels responsibly.