Drowsy riving

Source : Police Fédérale / WPR

March 15 was World Sleep Day, which raises awareness of the harmful effects of poor quality sleep. And of course, lack of sleep has consequences on driving. 

The Walloon Agency for Road Safety also recalled on this occasion that drowsiness at the wheel can multiply the risk of collision by up to 8 times. Don't they say that you can be "drunk with fatigue", which is a good image? 

A drowsy driver becomes less alert, with slowed reflexes. He may also fall asleep without realizing it, which greatly increases the risk of an accident. However, a recent study by the AWSR reveals that more than 1 in 3 Walloon motorists believe they can withstand fatigue at the wheel. But, let's say it right away, this is a mistaken belief. When drowsiness sets in, no one can guarantee that he will not fall into a fatal micro-sleep. 

What can cause drowsiness more quickly?

Insufficient sleep, a staggered pace of life or long and monotonous journeys are all factors that promote drowsiness at the wheel. A time change as well, and we have one in a few days. Some times of the day are also more problematic, such as after dinner or in the middle of the night, because these are times when the body seeks rest. Let's not forget the negative effect of alcohol or certain medications and drugs.

To limit drowsiness at the wheel, the first precaution is to get enough sleep, of course. Before getting behind the wheel, you should avoid alcohol in favor of water and not eat too much fat or too much. Every two hours at the latest, and earlier in the event of a slump, we stop driving. During the break, we get some fresh air, we stretch our legs. You can also take a nap of 15 to 20 minutes. 

What about technologies that detect tiredness?

These new technologies present in recent vehicles can also be an asset in preventing drowsiness at the wheel. But they obviously do not replace the vigilance of drivers and the importance of quality sleep. And they certainly don't allow you to postpone the much-needed break. 

Commissioner  Olivier Quisquater

Highway Police