RAC issues fatigue warning for leavers

19 November 2010

The RAC says fatigue could be the silent killer for young school leavers driving to and from leavers’ week celebrations.

An RAC Free2Go survey of 17-19 year old drivers shows that seven out of 10 respondents said they had driven while being affected by fatigue.

This was despite these same young drivers rating fatigue as the fourth most risky driving behaviour in causing serious or fatal accidents.

RAC Head of Member Advocacy Matt Brown said fatigue for young drivers was mostly a product of partying and late nights disrupting normal sleep patterns.

“Young adults are four times more likely to be involved in ‘fall asleep’ crashes than older drivers,” Mr Brown said.

“Even if school leavers haven’t been drinking or taking drugs, the lack of sleep from staying out at leavers parties makes them more susceptible to fatigue.

“Studies have shown that the hazard perception skills of younger, inexperienced drivers are significantly slowed by a mild increase in sleepiness.

“This fatigue coupled with inexperience, over-confidence and driving long distances on country roads is a potentially lethal mix.”

Mr Brown said leavers should not drive if they are tired and take multiple refresher breaks to help maintain their concentration.

On Sunday the RAC will be participating in a leavers’ week driver rest stop at the John Tognela Rest Area on Forrest Highway in the Shire of Waroona from 11am until 4pm.

Leavers who stop there will receive free water, food, showbags and giveaways. They will also have the opportunity to sign up for RAC Free2Go which is free Roadside Assistance for 17 years and half price for 18 and 19 year olds.

Download the release (pdf)