The research indicates it could be a contributory factor in one in five driver deaths in Ireland, the RSA says, and considers it as dangerous as driving when over the drink drive limit.
"It could be a contributory factor in up to 20 percent of driver deaths in Ireland," said Noel Brett, the RSA's Chief Executive. "But many people are simply unaware of the risks involved when you are a tired driver. The reality is, driving while tired affects your ability to react to hazards and, in some cases, can be fatal."
Here's the advice in dealing with the problem:
* If you start to feel tired, stop driving and park the car in a safe place.
* Drink two cups of coffee. Caffeine takes between twenty and thirty minutes to enter a person’s system and take effect.
* Take a 15 minute nap. By the time you wake up, the caffeine should have taken effect.
* Get out of the car, stretch your legs and get some fresh air. You should now be fit to drive for another hour or so.
* In cases of extreme tiredness brought on by sleep deprivation, the only cure is sleep.
