“The Survey Says” - 2.3 Million Fall Asleep At The Wheel

An estimated 2.3 million drivers fall asleep at the wheel of their vehicle every year according to new research just out.

Of 1,000 drivers questioned in a joint survey by road safety charity Brake and recovery company Green Flag, 7% admitted to falling asleep at the wheel.

If this percentage is applied to all registered drivers, it is possible that millions are dozing off on Britain’s roads.

In addition to this, more than a quarter of those interviewed believed they had been a passenger while a tired driver was in control

Despite the government’s campaign encouraging drivers to “Take a Break” it appears that many are still failing to do so.

The report reveals that 78% of drivers rely on opening windows or turning up the stereos in a bid to beat their tiredness.

The figures follow last week’s comments by road safety association GEM, saying that the poor quality of motorway service stations is forcing drivers to stay on the road instead of stopping.

Jools Townsend, head of education at Brake, said, “It’s crucial that drivers planning long journeys or driving at unusual hours are aware of the dangers of driving while tired and avoid it by getting a good night’s sleep beforehand and taking regular breaks.”