Alarming new insights into driver fatigue have been released. Research by Liberty insurance, in conjunction with Millward Brown, looked at the driving habits of GAA fans as part of their ongoing #DriveSafer campaign. The results found that 39% of GAA fans admitted to driving after less than 5 hours sleep and 53% experienced “an incident” such as nodding off at the wheel, not remembering the last few KMs, missing an exit, or having a slower reaction time to road hazards.

Annette Ní Dhathlaoí, Head of Marketing, Liberty Insurance said; “Our research has revealed some interesting but alarming insights into driver fatigue. Devoted GAA fans spend a lot of time on the road supporting their teams throughout the Championships; as Safe Driving Partner to the GAA we want to enhance their enjoyment by ensuring they stay safe on their travels.”

Former Kilkenny Hurler and five time All Ireland medal winner DJ Carey spoke of the research findings: “Addressing driver fatigue is important and one that all GAA players and supporters that travel to games should be very conscious of. I encourage everyone making the trip to Croke Park this weekend to get a good night’s sleep, plan ahead, take a break when you need to and arrive safely for the throw-in.”

The insurer provides some tips: (you can check out more at #DriveSafer):

• Plan the route in advance and take note of rest areas where you can take a break, have a refreshment to stay hydrated and stop and stretch your legs
• Make sure you’re well rested, especially before a long journey
• Avoid driving alone on long-distance trips. Passengers can both share in the driving and participate in conversation, which can help you stay awake.
• Allow yourself ample time to reach your destination so you can take advisably frequent breaks. Try to stop about every two hours, or every 150kms.
• Make a point of getting out of the car and walking at least a short distance, where it is safe to do.
• Driving for long periods at night makes fatigue much more likely. By avoiding travelling during these hours, you escape the glaring dashboard and road lights. That alone will help decrease your risk of motorway hypnosis.
• Finally, if you’re losing the battle against fatigue, stop and rest in a safe place.

This blog reproduced with permission of Liberty Insurance