Beware of myths surrounding driver fatigue! Rolling down a window, turning up the radio or chewing gum are not effective and long-lasting solutions.
Myths
“Drinking coffee equals 2 hours of sleep.”
Fact
Caffeine takes several minutes to take effect. It can make you more alert for a short time, but it cannot erase fatigue or your sleep debt.
The effects of caffeine vary widely from one person to another.
The caffeine content of drinks and food that contain any varies greatly.
When you start to feel the signs of fatigue, the only really safe solution is to stop to take a 15- to 30-minute nap before heading back out on a short trip. Drinking coffee can help for a little while, especially if it is consumed before the nap. Take the time to stretch your legs and get some fresh air before hitting the road again.
“My trick is to roll down the window to get a little fresh air. This is reinvigorating and helps me continue on my way.”
Fact
Rolling down a window, turning down the heating or turning up the air conditioning will only have very temporary effects, if any.
The signs of fatigue will return within 5 minutes...
“I am an experienced driver with good reflexes. I am able to react quickly, so fatigue doesn't really affect my driving.”
Fact
Fatigue is a biological state that neither willpower, nor experience nor motivation can overcome or compensate for.
Its effects interfere significantly with driver performance, regardless of driving experience.
“Over the past years, I've gotten used to sleeping fewer hours. My body is used to it.”
Fact
Most people require 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
Our bodies do not get used to a lack of sleep, even in the long term.
The accumulation of a sleep debt can have harmful effects on your driving and your general state of health.
What you should remember
You cannot control driver fatigue! You cannot “decide” to feel less tired. Your body decides!
Willpower, driving experience, motivation and all the “tricks” to fight fatigue won't change anything.
Only one solution: stop!
When you start to feel the signs of fatigue, the only real safe solution is to stop to take a 15 to 30 minute nap before heading back out on a short trip. Drinking coffee can also help, especially if it is consumed before the nap.
When you think about it, a 15-minute break in a safe spot is much better that a big crash a little further down the road!
