When it comes to accidents on the road, the importance of sleep cannot be overlooked. You can have the best cars, efficient scheduling and the latest technology, but if your drivers are sleep-deprived or fatigued, the risk of road accidents is still too high.
The dangers of sleep-deprived drivers
Impaired judgement and slower reaction times are just some of the risks when having fatigued drivers. This is not only dangerous, but also risky for your brand reputation, since your drivers are representatives of your brand and angry people in traffic will remember the car that drove irresponsibly.
Research has shown that it is not easy to estimate the exact number of fatigue related accidents, but there are some studies who have broken down the data.
21% of fatal crashes in the U.S involves a drowsy driver.
A driver who has slept between 5-6 hours during the last 24 hours is 1.9x more likely of collision, and those who have slept for 4 hours or less has 11.5x the collision rate.
Fatigue related crashes are 50% more likely to result in death or serious injury.
The role of sleep in mental health and driving efficiency
So, you probably understand by now that a lack of sleep increases the risk of collisions in traffic. Let’s look at a few other areas where the hours and the quality of sleep affect your drivers and their work.
Emotional regulation
When you don’t get enough sleep, it’s harder to stay calm and handle stress. A fatigued driver might feel more irritable or overreact to situations, which can affect how they drive and deal with others.
Decision-making
Sleep deprivation makes it tough to think clearly and make good choices. A stressed and sleep-deprived driver might misjudge distances, speeds, or make other negative decisions, which can have serious consequences for themselves, others in traffic, and your brand.
Focus and attention
It’s harder to stay focused when you’re tired. Distractions become a bigger problem, and the driver might miss road signs, traffic lights, or changes on the road.
Reaction time
Being tired slows you down. Drivers might not react quickly enough to sudden situations, like a car stopping suddenly or a person crossing the street.
Operational mistakes
Fatigue makes it easier to mess up basic tasks, like checking mirrors or using car functions properly. These small mistakes can lead to bigger problems.
How you can make sure your drivers are well-slept
In the end, it is up to each driver to make sure they get enough sleep at night. But in your role as a manager, you can help them make the right sleep decisions, and make sure they stay as safe as possible in traffic every day.
Educate and encourage
Educate your drivers on the importance of sleep and how it impacts their driving. Provide tips on creating a good sleep routine, like avoiding caffeine late in the day and setting a regular bedtime. Encourage them to recognize signs of fatigue and prioritize rest.
Use the right type of technology
Use technology to support safety, like fatigue detection systems or apps that monitor alertness. GPS and route optimization tools can also help reduce long hours on the road, giving drivers more time to rest.
Improve the culture
Create a workplace culture that values rest and safety over pushing limits. Make it clear that being well-rested is as important as meeting deadlines. Celebrate safe driving practices and avoid rewarding behaviors that encourage overwork.
Scheduling
Plan routes and shifts to allow drivers plenty of time for rest between trips. Avoid scheduling back-to-back shifts or overnight drives unless absolutely necessary. Flexibility can help drivers balance work and rest better.
Driving- and rest times
Ensure strict compliance with driving and rest regulations. Regularly review logs to confirm that drivers are taking the required breaks and aren’t exceeding legal driving hours.
Use GSFleet to work safer in 2025
Safe driving is one of the core values at GSFleet, and one way we’re trying to help improve safety on the roads is through our products. We offer systems and software that help Fleet Managers have more control of their fleet and help the drivers save time and minimize administration, which allows for more efficient workdays and more rest.
