Introduction

This web text provides an introduction on the subject of driver fatigue, its causes, consequences, and possible countermeasures. This first section examines What is fatigue? (Definition), its Physiological components and Psychological components, and the Progression of fatigue.

The five main causes of fatigue are described as:

• Lack of sleep or poor sleep
• Internal body clock (circadian rhythm)
• Time-on-task (long working hours)
• Monotonous tasks (lack of stimulation)
• Individual characteristics including medical conditions

Information is given on how fatigue affects Driving behaviour in general, and Steering, Speed choice and Following behaviour in particular, and how Compensatory strategies to fight off the effects of fatigue are not enough. This section also explains that the Driving without awareness phenomenon should not be confused with driver fatigue and it discusses some important Individual differences.

Research results are given on the prevalence of fatigued driving among: Among private drivers, Among young drivers, Among professional drivers, and Among shift workers.

Descriptions are also given on how to recognise fatigue-related crashes, the frequency of these crashes, and the evidence concerning the fatigue-risk relationship.

Further a focus on risks and circumstances of several driver groups who have a higher risk of driver fatigue: Young drivers, Professional and truck drivers, Shift workers and Drivers with sleep-breathing disorders.

Finally, this web text closes with a discussion of possible countermeasures, such as Publicity, Infrastructural, In-vehicle detection and warning, Legislation and enforcement, Fatigue management programs and a consideration of Further need for knowledge on countermeasures.

At the end of each section main, summarising conclusions are provided:

Conclusions Introduction, Conclusions Behaviour, Conclusions Prevalence, Conclusions Risk groups, Conclusions Crashes, Conclusions Countermeasures