The number of people injured or killed each month in driver-fatigue related crashes is 58 per cent higher in July and August compared to the rest of the year, according to data from the Insurance Corporation for British Columbia (ICBC).
The ICBC is warning drivers that long drives and hot summer temperatures can be a dangerous combination leading to fatigue. Fatigue can slow your reaction time and when driving at highway speeds, even a slight reduction in reaction time can significantly increase your risk of crashing.
Motorists are advised to look out for the following warning signs of driver fatigue:
- You’re finding it difficult to stay within your lane.
- Your driving speed creeps up or down.
- You don’t recall the previous few minutes of driving.
- You’re struggling to stay focused on the road or experiencing blurred vision.
- You’re feeling bored, yawning, or daydreaming.
- Your eyes feel heavy or you have difficulty keeping your head up (if this happens, stop driving).
- If you notice any signs of fatigue, pull over in a safe place like a rest stop and take a nap.
The ICBC has also offered the following tips to prevent driver fatigue:
- Consider how much sleep you’ve had before driving. When you know you’re fatigued, avoid driving altogether.
- Avoid driving at times when you’re normally sleeping.
- Get a good night’s sleep – ideally at least seven hours of good quality sleep.
- Understand the effects that the medication you’re taking could have on your driving.
- Take a break at least every two hours and switch drivers if possible.
