Fatigue and concentration

Fatigue behind the wheel is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Reaction time increases, attention falters, and in the worst case, you can fall asleep with your eyes open. The topic often comes up on the Class B theory test.

How fatigue affects driving

After just 17 hours without sleep, you drive roughly like a person with a 0.5‰ blood alcohol concentration.

Warning signs you need to recognize

• Frequent yawning and heavy eyelids
• Difficulty maintaining steady speed and course
• You do not remember the last few kilometers
• Irritability and restlessness
• Increased blinking and focusing on staying awake

If you experience one or more of these signs, you are too tired to drive.

What to do when fatigue sets in

The only safe solution is to stop and rest. A short nap of 15-20 minutes can make a big difference. Other measures:

• Plan breaks at least every two hours on longer trips
• Avoid driving at times when your body normally sleeps, especially between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
• Share driving with another person
• Fresh air and caffeine can provide temporary effect but do not replace sleep

Turning up the music or opening the window has very limited effect and provides a false sense of security.

Fatigue and risk

Fatigue amplifies other risk factors in traffic. A tired driver is more prone to distractions , makes more errors , and reacts worse to hidden hazards . Driving in darkness is particularly demanding when you are already tired.

Further reading

• Understanding risk in traffic
• Distraction and mobile use
• Blood alcohol limit and intoxication
• Defensive driving