Does 20 minutes of non-stop driving by two drivers count as fatigued driving?

[Lori]

Non-stop driving for 20 minutes by two drivers does not count as fatigued driving. Here are the relevant details: 1. The criteria for determining fatigued driving are: when a vehicle driver drives for more than eight hours a day. A driver may experience drowsiness, fatigue, or inability to promptly and accurately respond to road traffic conditions due to excessive physical exertion or lack of sleep. Meeting any of these conditions constitutes fatigued driving. 2. Additional information: The main causes of driving fatigue include living environment and sleep quality. Factors such as living far from the workplace, excessive household chores, heavy mental burdens, extensive social engagements, or prolonged participation in recreational activities can contribute. Going to bed too late, insufficient sleep time, poor sleep quality, or noisy sleeping environments that prevent restful sleep can also lead to driving fatigue.

[DeDakota]

As someone who has long been concerned about traffic safety, I find this question quite practical. Fatigue driving generally refers to a single driver experiencing physical or mental exhaustion from continuous driving, which can easily lead to accidents. If two drivers take turns driving, not resting for 20 minutes itself does not count as fatigue driving because the rotation helps share the burden. For example, truck drivers often use this method during long-distance trips—one drives while the other rests, thereby reducing overall risk. However, if both drivers drive continuously for 20 minutes without switching, there could be potential hazards. Legally, many regions recommend resting every 4 hours, so 20 minutes is too short to be considered a violation. But fatigue isn’t just about time; it also depends on the individual’s condition, such as whether they feel drowsy or distracted. It’s advisable to arrange a rotation plan—for instance, switching drivers every two hours, taking short breaks to stretch, drink water, or refresh. After all, prevention is better than cure, and safety comes first.

[VanRonan]

After driving long distances for so many years, my partner and I often operate this way. With two drivers taking turns, 20 minutes is hardly considered fatigued driving. Sometimes we drive continuously for several hours without issues, as long as we switch promptly. For example, while I drive, he sleeps, and when he wakes up, I take a break—each person only handles one segment. But without switching, pushing through even 20 minutes can be risky because fatigue accumulates easily. In real cases, many accidents happen when people think they’re fine. Signs of fatigued driving include yawning or slowed reactions, and dual drivers can remind each other. Overall, 20 minutes is short, and with proper rotation, there’s no risk; conversely, driving without switching becomes dangerous over time. Developing habits like stopping to stretch or chat to stay refreshed is the key.

[DaniellaLee]

As a novice driver, I've looked up relevant information. Fatigue driving mainly depends on the duration of continuous driving. With dual drivers who can take turns, 20 minutes without rest doesn't count as fatigue. According to regulations, the traffic department's standard suggests taking a break after more than two hours of continuous driving, so 20 minutes is below the threshold. However, fatigue varies from person to person – proper rotation can prevent it, but if one person drives the entire journey, there may be risks. It's recommended that novice drivers traveling in groups set rotation intervals, such as switching drivers every half hour with brief stops for movement. This helps maintain alertness and ensures a safe arrival home. Simply put, 20 minutes is safe under rotation.