Drowsy Driving

Fatigue and tiredness both are equally dangerous as far as driving is concerned, however the effect varies. Fatigues is known as impairment due to prolonged physical or mental work whereas the Tiredness may be defined as the likelihood of falling asleep. To treat fatigue rest is required (not necessarily sleep) and to treat tiredness sleep is required as only rest is not sufficient to overcome tiredness. Fatigue is the most common cause of road accidents. Severity of fatigue related accidents and fatality is higher as compared to non-fatigue related accidents. Fatigue reduces the reaction time, concentration, alertness and imposes negative effect on driving. Most of the fatigue related accident happens during early morning hours such as 2 to 4 am or 6 to 7 am or during the evening between 6 to 7 pm.

In terms of driving and consumption of alcohol, one must be aware of the legal limits of alcohol consumption defined in law in India. According to section 185(a) of Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, if the amount of alcohol exceeds 30 mg. per 100 ml of blood of a person driving a vehicle is considered as an offence. In addition, if a person is found incapable of controlling a vehicle under the influence of drugs it is also considered as an offence and booked under section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. If a person is convicted to have committed an offence under section 185 then he may be punished with imprisonment for a term up to six months or fine of rupees Ten Thousand or both. The legal limit of alcohol consumption for driving a vehicle varies from country to country and the experience of driving a person bears. In India, the limit is uniform for all vehicle drivers.

Management of Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the important phenomenon and cause of road crashes. Commercial long-haul drivers are usually suffer from fatigue and sleeplessness. To manage fatigue, it is recommended that after every three to four hours of drive a 15 minutes break should be taken from driving. During the break the following activities can be done to do away fatigue:

• Drink tea or coffee
• Wash face from cold water
• Take a nap

Ways to Delay the Tiredness

After working for certain hours, our body demands rest. To overcome tiredness it is required that a person should have sound sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours. Lack of insufficient sleep may lead to the following effects on driving behaviour:

• Lack of concentration
• Slower reaction time
• Feel restless, not able to think properly
• Uncontrolled speed

However, one cannot stop tiredness but we can delay it for some time by doing the following activities as depicted below:

• Stop the vehicle at a safe place or at a wayside amenity.
• Get out of the vehicle and walk for a while.
• If you are feeling drowsy, wash your face with cold water.
• Have some light refreshment like tea or coffee
• If you feel it is not possible to drive due to tiredness, take a small nap