Safety experts are calling for new driving laws to address the issue of tired drivers, with over 430 individuals killed or seriously injured in fatigue-related accidents in the UK in 2023. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and the Fatigue Group are advocating for measures such as roadside checks for driver fatigue and public awareness campaigns targeting high-risk groups like shift workers.
The European Commission’s Mobility and Transport department estimates that driver fatigue is a contributing factor in 15-20% of crashes, highlighting the need for action on this preventable problem. RoSPA is urging employers, policymakers, and the Government to improve workplace fatigue management, invest in public awareness campaigns, and collect better data on fatigue-related crashes.
The Fatigue Group, founded by NHS anaesthetists, is advising drivers to take regular rest breaks at work to reduce road risks, particularly for those who frequently drive long distances or work in shifts. Employers are being encouraged to incorporate effective fatigue risk management into work schedules to ensure their staff are well-rested and reduce the risk of accidents caused by exhaustion.
