DRIVER FATIGUE
A driver who is significantly fatigued while driving, poses risk of a crash.
Fatigue makes one less aware of what is happening on the road and damages our ability to react or responds quickly and safely in case of a dangerous situation.
Driver fatigue is one of the causes of road accidents on Fijian roads.
But this can be avoided.
SYMPTOMS OF DRIVER FATIGUE
One may find it difficult to drive when in exhaustion. Often, drivers fail to self-assess their fatigue because they are determined to reach their destination with confidence in their ability to drive. However, one must take note of fatigue symptoms.
Nevertheless, some symptoms to look out for driver fatigue, includes;
- Sleepiness
- Trouble focusing
- Hard to keep the eyes open
- Unable to recall the last few minutes
- Poor judgement, slower reaction time
- Wandering thoughts
- Constant yawning or rubbing your eyes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of driver fatigue, your driving performance is may be already impaired.
CAUSES OF DRIVER FATIGUE
- Lack of sleep
- Driving at times of the day when you want to rest
At the end of the day, not getting enough sleep, can cause you to be sleep deprived.
Stress could also lead to fatigue.
So unless you can catch up on lost sleep or relax your mind will have a greater risk of having a fatigue-related.
Who All Are at The Risk of Driver Fatigue?
- Young drivers
- Shift workers and those working extended hours
- Commercial drivers: Long distance driving, often at night
- Business travelers –suffering from jetlag or long journey stress
EFFECTS AND CONSEQUENCES OF DRIVER FATIGUE
Driver fatigue can result in a disaster or an unfortunate and unwanted mishap.
It could result in a single vehicle veering off the lane, colliding with another vehicle/person/object or even fall of into a ditch.
It could cost someone his/her life as well as of others.
If you experience fatigue while driving, please stop and take a rest. It is better late than never!
TAKE CARE OF YOUR SELF WHEN ON THE ROAD, RISKING ROAD SAFETY IS RISKING YOUR LIFE!
Many lives have been lost on our roads as a result of failure to road safety rules being followed.
As such, it is very important for members of the community to follow road safety rules at all times and avoid being a road fatality as a result of not practising road safety rules.
HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT ROAD SAFETY TIPS:
Do not use mobile phones while driving: Every activity using your mobile phone while driving can distract your attention that could lead to an accident and even death. Avoid using mobile phone while driving.
Seat Belt: Drivers and passengers should fasten their seat belts at all times when travelling.
Keep your distance: Always keep a two second or two cars length as gap between you and any vehicle in front.
Don’t drink and drive: Driving under the influence of liquor is not allowed. It will seriously get you injured or a catastrophic death.
Take a break: Tiredness are among major factors of road accidents. When driving long hours, have a break and rest for a while before proceeding to your journey.
Share if you can: For long trips, share the driving responsibilities with someone else. This will allow you keep an eye on each other while driving and also enable you to nap without losing time.
Children: Children are vulnerable, take extra care when driving in school zones and playgrounds.
Stay within the Speed Limit: Always drive within the speed limit. It will help you prevent accidents.
Don’t eat/drink while driving: It can have you lose control of the vehicle and lead to an accident. Better be safe by parking at a parking spot to eat.
Earpiece: Avoid using earpiece while driving as it can get you distracted and cause an accident.
For further information or clarification on the above please contact LTA Communications on 3392166 ext. 1101 (between 8am to 4pm) or email: communications@lta.com.fj.
Contact us on Tel: 339 2166 or Toll Free: 0800 334 2886
Email: online@lta.com.fj or Visit our website: www.lta.com.fj