In a new Ipsos survey, one-in-four British Columbia drivers admitted to momentarily nodding off while driving in the past year.
Now the ICBC is warning drivers to watch out for an often-overlooked summer danger: fatigue. The organization said long drives and hot weather can be a dangerous combination leading to fatigue and serious, preventable crashes.
According to police data, 71 per cent more people are injured or killed in fatigue related crashes in July and August in BC compared to the rest of the year.
“It’s alarming that so many drivers on our roads have been tired enough that they’ve nodded off or fallen asleep,” said Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC road safety manager.
“Consider how you feel before getting behind the wheel. If you’re tired to begin with, you shouldn’t be driving. If you’re feeling rested, keep in mind that hot summer weather can be draining, especially on long drives, so plan to take a break every two hours to keep your energy levels up and switch drivers if you can.”
Among drivers who reported driving while fatigued in the past year, 68 per cent cited lack of sleep the night before as a factor, while 53 per cent of respondents pointed to driving too long without a break, and 48 per cent attributed it to the time of day they travelled.
ICBC has offered the following tips to prevent driver fatigue:
- Get a good night’s sleep – ideally at least seven hours of good quality sleep.
- Consider how you’re feeling and how much sleep you’ve had before you start driving. Avoid driving when you’re feeling tired.
- Avoid driving at times when you’re normally sleeping.
- Understand the effects that any medication you’re taking could have on your driving.
- Take a break at least every two hours and switch drivers if possible.
