How does fatigue affect driving performance?

Fatigue significantly impairs attention and decision-making ability, which is critical for safe driving. When a driver is fatigued, their concentration wanes, leading to slower reaction times and reduced awareness of their surroundings. This diminished ability to process information can cause drivers to overlook important cues, such as traffic signals or changes in road conditions, compromising their ability to make sound judgments on the road.

Fatigue can lead to micro-sleeps, where a driver may momentarily doze off, which can have dire consequences. Additionally, fatigue affects a driver’s ability to assess risks, leading to poor decisions like speeding or misjudging distances between vehicles. Understanding the impact of fatigue emphasizes the importance of rest and alertness in driving, as staying well-rested is vital for maintaining focus and ensuring safe driving performance.