Heading off on a long drive over the holiday period. Here’s a few simple tips to manage fatigue one of the three big killers on our roads. The end of the working day is certainly not the time to head off on that long drive. Statistics show you’re four times more likely to have a fatal fatigue crash between the hours of 10pm and dawn so don’t head off after a hard week at work – the highest number of fatal crashes occur in the afternoon peak period on a Friday. Head off early morning after a good sleep and a hearty breakfast when your energy levels are high. Carry plenty of water. – as well as being well hydrated it also means more toilet stops along the way. Good posture also lessens fatigue. As a guide, sit upright – stretch out your left arm so that your palm touches the top of the wheel. Adjust the seat length accordingly and bring the back of the seat up to give you good lumbar support. Driving long distances is also hard on the eyes – glare is a major contributor to fatigue so pull the sun visor down to the horizon and cut out as much sky as possible. All simple stuff I know but it could well save your life. I’m David Berthon.

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