What is the impact of driving while fatigued?

Driving while fatigued significantly reduces focus and reaction times, leading to impaired judgment and slower responses to unexpected situations while on the road. Fatigue affects cognitive functions, making it difficult for drivers to maintain attention to driving tasks and to process information quickly. This can result in situations where a driver may not notice hazards or react appropriately to changes in traffic patterns, increasing the risk of accidents.

Research has shown that fatigue can have effects similar to those of alcohol impairment, meaning a tired driver may struggle with maintaining lane position, effectively judging distances, and responding to the actions of other drivers. Thus, the impact of driving while fatigued is serious, and recognizing this can help in understanding the importance of ensuring adequate rest before getting behind the wheel.