How Long Can a Car Drive Continuously Before Needing a Break?
3 Answers
Drivers should not drive continuously for more than four hours. Upon reaching this duration, they should take a break of at least 20 minutes at a service area. Here are some relevant details: 1. Fatigue Driving: Fatigue driving is highly likely to cause traffic accidents. It refers to the phenomenon where a driver experiences physiological and psychological dysfunction after prolonged continuous driving, leading to a decline in driving skills. Poor or insufficient sleep quality and extended periods of driving can easily result in a lack of endogenous oxygen, leading to fatigue. 2. Precautions: When driving on highways, it is essential to plan the journey reasonably, ensuring sufficient time for breaks at service areas to avoid fatigue driving.
When driving long distances, I recommend taking a break every two hours, usually stopping for 15 to 30 minutes to let both the car and the driver rest. Driving for too long can easily cause the engine to overheat, especially during the high temperatures of summer, when the risk is even higher. I've encountered a few instances where the engine suddenly gave a warning, scaring me into immediately turning it off to check. After stopping, it's also a good idea to check the fuel level and tire wear, gently pressing to confirm the tire pressure is normal, which can help avoid the risk of a blowout. Stretching your body and drinking some water is also quite important, as fatigued driving is the leading cause of accidents on highways. I've made it a habit to stop at service areas every 120 kilometers or so to stretch my legs and buy some snacks when the traffic isn't heavy. Newer cars might be able to go for three hours, but it's always better to err on the side of caution.
As a driver who frequently travels at night, I've found that you shouldn't drive continuously for more than two hours without taking a break. I'm in the habit of setting a reminder on my phone, and when the time's up, I find a safe spot to pull over and stretch my legs to prevent muscle numbness and mistakes. At the same time, I check if the lights and brakes are functioning properly, as prolonged driving can cause heat buildup leading to performance degradation. Every time I stop, I also take the opportunity to clean the dust off the windshield to maintain clear visibility—don't underestimate this habit, it's literally saved lives. Professional statistics show that fatigued driving slows reaction times, so I always advise my companions to take turns driving rather than pushing one person to go too long. In summer, extra attention is needed to ensure the engine doesn't overheat—don't push it too hard.
