Driving tired risks heat up in summer
The AA has warned motorists about the risks of dehydration and driving tired during the summer.
It has said that high temperatures can make it harder to sleep, leaving drivers tired during the morning commute. Tiredness can slow reactions, reduce concentration and increase the irritation caused by congestion and other drivers’ behaviour.
Further, research has proven that dehydration can result in drivers making as many mistakes behind the wheel as those under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Edmund King, AA president, said: “DriveTech, the driver training arm of The AA, has highlighted how dehydration can seriously affect driver performance in a similar way to drink or drugs. In this heat, keeping water in the car is not just about comfort, it is about safety.”
He concluded: “Hot weather, heavy traffic and tired drivers are not a good mix. If people have struggled to sleep in the heat, they may be less patient, less focused and more likely to make mistakes on the morning commute.
“Road rage can escalate quickly, especially when people are uncomfortable and rushing. Stay calm, avoid reacting to other drivers, keep a safe distance and remember that everyone else is dealing with the same heat.”
