Rutland's Road Safety Partnership are warning drivers about the devastating impact of driving tired
An average of 262 people were killed or seriously injured during June and August each year between 2016 and 2022 where fatigue was a contributory factor
Rutland's Road Safety Partnership are urging people to take regular breaks when making trips this summer holidays.
On average, 262 people were killed or seriously injured during June and August each year between 2016 and 2022, where fatigue was a contributory factor.
That is 59% more than the whole of the remaining nine months of a year.
You could travel 200 meters and think about the devastation that could cause
Jonathan Clarkson, from the Leicestershire and Rutland Road Safety Partnership, said:
"It's estimated that it does cause between 10-20% of collisions, so it's regarded as a major cause of collisions."
"However, unlike drink or drug driving, it's difficult to spot because it can't be tested for."
"If you're travelling at 70 miles per hour, you could travel 200 meters and think about the devastation that could cause."
"It could be across three lanes on a motorway and cause carnage."
"I think when it comes to advice, we'd be saying make sure you're well rested in advance, take a break every couple of hours, and stay hydrated."
A National Highways survey of 1,727 adults in England indicated just 39% would take a break because of driver tiredness.
29% said they did not factor in rest stops on their last long journey.
Tiredness slows your reactions, clouds your judgment and can lead to dangerous mistakes
Sheena Hague, director of road safety at National Highways, said:
"We all want to reach our destination quickly, especially when the excitement of a holiday awaits, but fatigue behind the wheel can be deadly."
"It's not just about falling asleep, tiredness slows your reactions, clouds your judgment and can lead to dangerous mistakes."
"That's why we're encouraging drivers to follow our advice by planning ahead, taking regular breaks and staying refreshed."
"This will help keep themselves and other road users safe while enjoying the rich heritage and natural beauty our country has to offer."