Police warn drivers of fatigue during Xmas

[AWD Chaser]

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/...ue-during-xmas

Tired drivers can be just as deadly on Australian roads over Christmas as drunk drivers, police warn.
In a battle to prevent deaths on the roads, police on both sides of the Tasman are highlighting the dangers of driver fatigue.
Australian and New Zealand Police Advisory Agency boss Jon White said day-dreaming, "zoning out" and momentary inattention were common among fatigued drivers and increased the risk of accidents and death.
"Driving tired can be as dangerous as drink-driving," Mr White said.
"Falling asleep is the worst-case scenario but fatigue can result in momentary inattention, zoning out and day-dreaming which are all extremely hazardous while driving.
"Fatigue represents a causal factor in up to 30 per cent of fatalities in Australia and up to 13 per cent in New Zealand.
"Being tired slows our reaction times and our ability to concentrate on the road and traffic around us."
Queensland Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said there was another contributing factor to accidents on Australian roads that was rarely discussed - attitude.
Mr Atkinson said the mindset of drivers was as important as their physical well-being, especially on long journeys.
In an open letter to Queenslanders, Mr Atkinson has implored drivers to have a safe, patient and caring mindset when driving.
"Your personal approach every time you get behind the wheel is one of the most important factors in your safety and that of others on the roads," Mr Atkinson said in a letter.
"Aggressive, impatient driving is more likely to be a factor in crashes, linked with speeding, or bad decisions such as overtaking when it is not safe, tailgating, and generally taking unnecessary risks.
"At this time of the year one of the best aspects is the goodwill that is exampled by patience, tolerance, care and courtesy.
"Well-wishes from relative strangers, and small acts of kindness embody the generosity of the season."
Mr White gave some basic tips to help people avoid becoming tired and weary drivers this Christmas:
- Stop for 10 minutes every two hours.
- Have at least 7.5 hours sleep the night before driving.
- Limit travel to 10 hours a day.
- Swap drivers where possible.
- Avoid medications that make you drowsy.

Fatigue represents a causal factor in up to 30 per cent of fatalities in Australia

Maybe the govt should focus on reducing this... but I guess there is no automatic way to tax fatigued drivers...