Understanding the Risks and Protecting Your Health on the Road

Driver fatigue is a concern that extends beyond long-distance travel. For those in private-hire, taxi, or delivery roles, the traditional work schedule is often non-existent. A 2022 study indicated that platform workers typically work around 59 hours per week. While specific daily hour statistics are unavailable, it's common for delivery riders to spend 10 to 12 hours on the road. With a significant number of platform workers in the ride-hail and delivery sectors, a considerable portion of the workforce may experience fatigue while working to earn a living.

Anyone who spends a lot of time driving knows that driver fatigue is a real issue. Drivers experiencing fatigue may exhibit signs such as frequent yawning, difficulty keeping their eyes open, and reduced concentration. Passengers might also notice the driver becoming restless, drifting out of their lane, or driving erratically. According to Dr. Licia Tan, driver fatigue can set in after just one to two hours of continuous driving. Driving requires sustained attention, quick reflexes, and decision-making, all of which decline when a driver is tired.

The rate at which fatigue sets in depends on various factors, including individual differences in sustained attention, sleep, psychological state, mental sharpness, and environmental conditions. Intense weather, such as high temperatures, can worsen fatigue symptoms and has been linked to poorer decision-making and road accidents. Prolonged wakefulness impairs brain function, comparable to alcohol intoxication. Being awake for 18 hours is similar to having a blood alcohol content of 0.05 percent, and 24 hours equates to 0.10 percent.

There are two types of fatigue. Active fatigue involves high mental effort due to harsh external conditions like poor weather, hazardous roads, and heavy traffic. Passive fatigue results from prolonged periods of little to do, such as driving on the expressway with cruise control. Both types of fatigue can lead to a decline in vigilance or uncover underlying sleepiness and drowsiness.

Other factors can impair reaction and focus while driving. Psychological states such as stress, anxiety, and anger can impair judgment. Alcohol reduces alertness, impairs judgment, impacts motor coordination, and slows reaction time. Distractions like using a mobile phone increase the risk of accidents by diverting visual and mental attention.

Driving can have long-term health impacts. It is a sedentary activity involving long hours of sitting, irregular meals and breaks, and limited physical activity, increasing the risk of chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity. Poor ergonomics and prolonged sitting can contribute to musculoskeletal disorders like lower back pain. Whole-body vibration experienced by heavy-vehicle drivers is another concern, with potential negative health effects. Job stress and abuse from demanding passengers and customers can also contribute to health issues.