The dangers associated with driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances is common knowledge. Inversely, the risks of fatigued or drowsy driving is often overlooked despite how dangerous driving in this state can be.
The CEO Of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says according to the Loughborough Sleep Research Centre and Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, fatigued drivers account for more than 20% of all road accidents. “Up to 1 in 5 fatal accidents result from tired drivers. Additionally, approximately 1 in 25 drivers report falling asleep while driving and many more admit to driving while sleep deprived.
“Lack of sleep has an adverse neuro-behavioural effect on physical and mental behaviours. Fatigue affects a driver’s cognitive abilities, critical driving skills, concentration, reaction times and awareness of hazards.”
Drowsy driving can be worse during flu season. “A common side-effect of flu medications is drowsiness. Drivers often underestimate the effect this can have. Coupled with the fatigue that accompanies illness, it can be a recipe for disaster. Various studies suggest that driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as drunken driving.
“These medications can come with a multitude of side-effects, including extreme drowsiness. If you experience these symptoms while operating a vehicle, you place yourself in a very dangerous position. Rather hold off on taking any medication until you have arrived safely at the office.”
For those who need to drive for a living, it is more complicated. “If you are on the road most of the time, there is almost no scenario where it is safe to take flu medication. If recommended by a doctor, employees must take sick leave and provide desk-bound duties until they are well enough to drive.
“It is the responsibility of employers to create awareness about using drowsy-causing medications while driving. Employers should have alternative plans for employees whose time on the road directly impacts income. These employees are more likely to feel pressurised to return to work early or use over-the-counter medications to help them continue working through an illness.”
Reducing the number of crashes resulting from consuming legal drugs, should form part of company policy. “The safety of your employees and consequently the well-being of your company may depend on it,” says Herbert.