What is the impact of driver fatigue on vehicle operation?

Driver fatigue has a profound impact on vehicle operation, particularly by significantly increasing the risk of accidents. When a driver is fatigued, their cognitive functions, alertness, and overall physical ability to operate the vehicle are severely impaired. This can manifest as reduced reaction times, decreased awareness of surroundings, and impaired judgment, all of which are crucial for safe driving.

Fatigue can lead to microsleeps, where the driver may briefly lose consciousness without realizing it, increasing the likelihood of critical mistakes or an inability to respond to road hazards. As such, the risk of accidents linked to fatigue is well-documented, emphasizing the importance of remaining alert and taking breaks during long drives to mitigate these dangers.