How Long Does It Take to Be Considered Fatigued Driving?
2 Answers
Continuous driving for 4 hours is considered fatigued driving. According to Article 62 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law," the following behaviors are prohibited when operating a motor vehicle: driving continuously for more than 4 hours without stopping to rest or stopping for less than 20 minutes. There are requirements for shoes when driving. Below are the relevant details: Lightweight: Heavy shoes, such as outdoor hiking boots, are not light and flexible enough, which may prevent timely and precise reactions in emergency situations. High fit with the foot: It is important to note that sports shoes with air cushions or airbags in the soles are also unsuitable for driving, as they prevent the foot from fully sensing the pressure on the pedals. High friction: The soles should not be too smooth, as this would be similar to driving barefoot. Shoes with higher friction ensure better contact between the soles and the pedals.
I understand the issue of fatigued driving. From a traffic regulation perspective, driving continuously for 4 hours is considered fatigued driving, with clear regulations in many countries including China. Beyond 4 hours, a driver's reaction time slows, vision blurs, and risks increase. This duration isn't absolute—it also depends on individual conditions and weather factors, like summer heat or nighttime driving which increase fatigue. For long trips, I recommend planning ahead, stopping at service areas every two hours for a 20-minute break. Safety comes first; if you feel drowsy, never push through—the consequences of fatigued driving can be more severe than imagined, causing rear-end collisions or run-off-road crashes. Statistics show many annual accidents stem from this. Following the rules can save lives.
