National Highways has issued a major safety warning urging drivers to follow a two-hour rule to prevent fatigue-related crashes on roads in England this summer. Motorists are being told to stop every two hours while travelling and take a break of at least 15 minutes.
Fatigue Crash Risks Heighten During Summer
The organisation is encouraging drivers to ensure they are well rested before setting off and to plan rest stops. According to National Highways, 60 per cent of drivers in England expect to make longer journeys between 7pm and 7am during the holidays. Almost half of motorists (45 per cent) admitted they are not always properly rested before starting a long journey.
Few Drivers Plan Rest Stops in Advance
Fewer than half of drivers (42 per cent) plan their rest stops before leaving home, research shows. Colin Stevenson, Road Safety Information Lead at National Highways, said: "Fatigue can affect your concentration and reactions before you realise it. Our research shows more drivers will be travelling overnight or early morning this summer, yet many aren't making sure they're properly rested before setting off. Whether you're heading off on holiday, visiting family or making a long journey, make sure you are well rested and never push through tiredness. Remember to plan at least a 15-minute break for every two hours of driving, whatever time you're on the road."
Expert Warns of Declining Performance
Professor John Groeger, Professor of Psychology at Nottingham Trent University, said: "Driving is a complex task that requires sustained concentration, yet many drivers underestimate how demanding long-distance journeys can be. The danger is that people become less aware of their own declining performance. Drivers should think about more than just the miles ahead. They need to consider how long they have been driving without a break – two hours should be the maximum. Drivers also need to think about how long they have been awake, the quality of sleep they last had and the time of day they are travelling."
