Dorset drivers encouraged to be alert to the issue of fatigue

09.04 | 8 February 2022 |

Dorset Road Safe has launched a new campaign to highlight the dangers of driving while fatigued.

The campaign follows a number of recent road collision case studies in the local area, which identified fatigue as a likely cause.

Statistics show fatigue is recorded as a factor in more than 1,500 injury collisions each year.

At the heart of the campaign is a three-minute video, which helps road users identify the signs of fatigue – such as headaches, muscle weakness and slowed reflexes.

 

The video also gives coping strategies, including eating healthy food, staying hydrated and planning/organising time for rest.

The campaign also features a number of posters, which will be shared on social media.

One reads: “Would you stop a friend, colleague, or family member from driving if they were yawning excessively?

“Among other things, fatigue causes slowed reflexes and responses, and impaired decision making.

“It is estimated that drivers who fall asleep at the wheel account for around one fifth of incidents on major roads.”

Another of the posters includes a link to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website, in an effort to also highlight the issue to employers.

This poster reads: “If you employ people to drive for your company, you have a duty of care.

“Driving for work is one of the highest-risk activities that most employees undertake. You have the power in your hands to create a better working culture and help people make the right life choices.”


 

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