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Here at eCoachManager we have providing state of the art software for coach operators for many years. Helping to improve the efficiency of the operator’s company but also to add more safety and security for their operations has been one of our main purposes.

But it is one thing to know exactly where your vehicle and driver are, and that the required vehicle checks are done before each journey, but how do you know the condition of your driver?

There are certain ways that you can help your driver to avoid fatigue and in this blog we highlight some of them.

If you would like to know more about how eCoachManager can help your group transportation company then contact us today.

Avoiding Driver Fatigue

It is said that 20% of all road fatalities are due to driver fatigue, and most of these fatigue-related accidents happen at night during normal sleeping hours. And in rural areas this percentage is even higher, roughly 30%.

It is many people’s miscomprehension that fatigue only occurs during long journeys, but this is far from the truth, as fatigue is just as relevant for drivers making local journeys. Many drivers do not suffer fatigue from actually driving, rather they are generally tired before they get behind the wheel.

Causes of Drowsiness

There are three main causes for drowsiness which are fairly predictable:

• Lack of quality sleep.
• Driving at a time when you would normally be sleeping
• Sleep disorders

You must realise that you can’t fight against sleep, chemicals build up in your brain until your body shuts down.

Symptoms of Fatigue

It might seem obvious that when you yawn that it is a symptom that you are tired and have fatigue, but there are other symptoms that may be against your normal personality that could also indicate that you are fatigued, including:

• Slower reaction times
• Impatience
• Cramps and stiffness
• Sore eyes
• Lack of concentration
• Inconsistent speed
• Poor driving performance

If you start to suffer from one or more than one of the above, then it is time to stop and take a break from driving.

How to Beat Fatigue

There is only one true way of beating fatigue and that is by sleeping, however there are ways to stave off fatigue.

• Get a good sleep prior to driving
• Do not drive over eight hours per day
• Every two hours take a break
• If possible share the driving duties
• Never consume alcohol up to eight hours before driving
• Try not to drive when you normally sleep
• Take a powernap if you are struggling

When you get drowsy and suffer from fatigue it has a similar effect that alcohol does, it will slow your reactions down and will produce lack of concentration. It can also lead to poor decision making and judgement.

Fatigue is a serious issue to anybody that drives for a living or any person that runs a business that employs drivers. In either case be aware of the problems fatigue can cause and take precautions against it.