DRIVING while fatigued or sleep-deprived is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

“Fatigue-related accidents would be greater among occupational drivers,” said Duane Ellis, Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) general manager.

The JAA GM referred to a study conducted by the Center for Sleep Research at the University of South Australia in 1997, which revealed that 24 hours without sleep is equivalent to driving with a Blood Alcohol Level (BAC) of 0.10 per cent. That is higher than the legal limit for Jamaica of 0.8 per cent.

“With the increase in cargo vehicles moving across Jamaica, more heavy-duty equipment drivers are on the roads for longer hours, often with little rest,” he continued.

With most sleep-related accidents occurring during early hours of the morning hours, Ellis said signs of fatigue include: Increased yawning; drowsiness; tired eyes; poor concentration; slowed reaction; oversteering; drifting out of lane; and, tailgating.