Fatigue

Driver fatigue is a major contributor to road accidents in Victoria.

Rest areas along the Hume Highway and other major road networks create the opportunity for road users to take a break and use the amenities.

During the holiday season, a community program called ‘Driver Reviver’ is run by volunteers at rest stops across Australia. Up to 220 sites are set up by community groups and service organisations. Members give up their own time to serve free cups of tea or coffee and a biscuit to drivers.

Visit the SES Driver Reviver website for more information.

Signs of fatigue

Fatigue is a major cause of road accidents. Fatigue causes microsleeps, which equate to a total loss of control at the wheel due to tiredness. The only way to fight fatigue is to sleep.

Some of the signs of fatigue include: 

  • Yawning
  • Drifting
  • Sore eyes
  • Heavy head
  • Delayed reaction times
  • Daydreaming
  • Difficulty remembering a stretch of the drive
  • Variations in driving speed

 

A 15 minute powernap could save your life.

For information about driver safety, including tips on how to avoid fatigue, visit the VicRoads website.

 

Back to top