Drivers have been warned taking breaks from behind the wheel is essential to save lives, ahead of a busy weekend on Queensland roads.
Dr Chris Watling, from QUT’s Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety - Queensland (CARRS-Q), said driver sleepiness was one of the “fatal five” behaviours causing road trauma, and accounted for around one in five fatal and severe crashes.
His warning comes with Queenslanders set to hit the highways this weekend - returning from holidays in time for the school term and taking daytrips to cool off at the coast.
Dr Watling said that while drivers choose to drink and drive or use a mobile phone, they don’t necessarily choose to experience sleepiness.
“Sleep is a biological need and no one is immune to it,” he said.
“Every individual is likely to experience sleepiness and sleepiness is something that is difficult to control with sheer willpower, and the need to sleep is stronger than your will to stay awake.
“You can try to fight sleepiness but even if you can stay awake, you’re not mentally sharp nor alert and your reactions are dangerously delayed.”
Dr Watling said there were several signs of sleepiness to look out for, including:
- Yawning
- Frequently changing position in your chair
- Blinking more than usual and difficulty keeping your eyes open
- Difficulty concentrating on driving
- Slower reaction to traffic events
- Increased variation in speed
- Drifting in or across your lane
- Dreamlike state of consciousness
Previous research has found even a small reduction in sleep affected driving ability and a 15-minute nap break during a long drive reduced sleepiness levels.
Dr Watling said even if only on the road for a short period, drivers should be aware of the signs of sleepiness. He said they should take a break as soon as signs occurred and certainly before they experience heightened levels of sleepiness such as mircosleeps or head nodding behaviours.
“Ensure you have a good night’s sleep before driving long distances and if possible swap drivers to share the load,” he said.
“Take a short nap during breaks and you can also have a coffee to increase alertness, but be aware of the eventual comedown.”
Dr Watling said with about 450 rest stops in Queensland, journeys should be planned to include a break.
“Not only does this reduce the chance of crashing, but it can also be a way to make the journey more enjoyable, for example by stopping somewhere for lunch or exploring a town you haven’t visited before.”
Media contact:
Rob Kidd, QUT Media, 07 3138 1841, rj.kidd@qut.edu.au
After hours, Rose Trapnell, 0407 585 901
