How many hours is considered fatigued driving?
2 Answers
Fatigued driving refers to operating a motor vehicle continuously for more than 4 hours without stopping for rest or taking a break of less than 20 minutes. Driver fatigue occurs when prolonged continuous driving leads to physiological and psychological dysfunction, objectively manifesting as a decline in driving skills. To alleviate fatigued driving, one should decisively choose appropriate moments to rest, preferably before drowsiness sets in. Driving while drowsy means the driver cannot predict when they might fall asleep. A good driving habit is to take a break every two hours to ensure full concentration once behind the wheel.
Fatigue driving generally means entering a danger zone after continuously driving for over 4 hours, especially without rest on highways. I remember once when I was making a long-distance delivery, I drove non-stop for 5 hours and almost rear-ended another vehicle. The police even warned me for violating safety regulations. Many places legally require a 20-minute break every 4 hours, with total daily driving not exceeding 8 hours. After years of driving, I've developed a habit of stopping at service areas every 2 hours to stretch my legs and have some coffee. When fatigued, reaction times slow down significantly, multiplying accident risks. Driving isn't about competing over time; the key is maintaining a clear head. Get enough sleep beforehand and plan multiple rest stops during the journey. This approach ensures both safety and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy long trips without the exhausting rush.
