Poor Driving

Poor drivers such as those who are aggressive, erratic, inconsiderate or fatigued pose a serious threat to road safety. For example, extensive research into collision cause and prevention has revealed that 10% of all road traffic collisions may be as a result of fatigued drivers.

Driving When Tired

An estimated 300 people are killed every year in the UK by falling asleep at the wheel. Many of the deaths and serious injuries are occurring on busy roads with a national speed limit and the consequences are worsened by the high speed of impact and the fact that the driver has not braked beforehand.

Many national studies have been carried out into driver fatigue and it has been suggested that opening a window or turning up the radio does little to prevent a driver from falling asleep at the wheel. However, some of the advice that has been given for driving when tired includes:

• Have a good night’s sleep before setting out on a long journey.
• Plan your journey to include a 15-minute break every two hours.
• Find a safe place to stop if you feel drowsy (not the hard shoulder).
• Drink two cups of coffee or a high-caffeine drink and have a rest for 10-15 minutes to allow time for the caffeine to kick in.
• Don’t start a long trip if you’re already tired.
• Remember the risks if you have to get up unusually early to start a long drive.
• Try to avoid long trips between midnight and 6am when you’re likely to feel sleepy anyway. Another natural slump where drivers should take particular care is in the afternoon between 2pm and 4pm.
• Share the driving, if possible.

Inconsiderate and Aggressive Driving

Much of the congestion caused on the UK’s roads could be alleviated by drivers showing more consideration for other road users. For example, simply remembering to indicate intentions at traffic roundabouts can increase the flow at congested areas.

Other observation and anticipation skills such as using the right lane and not ‘cutting people up’ could substantially improve road safety, as well as driver behaviour.

More considerate driving could also benefit drivers financially. Less aggressive and erratic driving is likely to lead to more cost-effective motoring, due to savings in fuel used and less wear and tear on brakes.