APRIL: Fatigue/Practise in all conditions
Fatigue is responsible for around 20 percent of fatal crashes, resulting in almost 70 deaths and approximately 500 serious injuries each year.
Going without sleep for 17 hours has the same effect on your ability to drive as having a blood alcohol level of 0.05.
To avoid fatigue itâs important to get a good nightâs sleep before setting out on a long trip, plan ahead, take regular breaks every two hours, swap drivers if possible and take a 15 minute powernap if youâre tired.
Being a safe driver also depends on how skilled and experienced you are. The more practice you get on your L plates, the lower your crash risk on your Ps.
Itâs important to use your time well when youâre on your Ls, making sure you drive on different types of roads, at varying times and in all weather.
You should get at least 120 hours of supervised practice in all types of driving conditions. This means practising for around one hour a week if you are on L plates for two years.
Last Modified on 15/04/2009 08:38