Driving long stretches across Wentworth Shire is part of daily life, but long shifts, early starts, and repetitive open roads take a quiet toll behind the wheel.
August is Rural Road Safety Month, and this week the focus is on driver fatigue. Tired driving is far more dangerous than most people realise-fatigue-related crashes are almost three times as likely to be fatal compared to crashes where fatigue isn't a factor.
It's easy to assume fatigue only affects tourists on long road trips, but local context tells a different story: 83% of all fatal crashes on NSW country roads involve local country residents. Exhaustion sneaks up on everyday commutes and familiar routes, leading to micro-sleeps, slowed reaction times, and reduced alertness.
Recognising the early warning signs-heavy eyes, frequent yawning, or failing to remember the last few kilometres-can save your life. Driver fatigue can't be fixed by turning up the radio or opening a window.
Steps to prevent fatigue on country roads:
Plan rest breaks: Stop for a 15-minute break every two hours on long trips.
Recognise the signs: If you feel drowsy, pull over in a safe location or switch drivers immediately.
Prioritise sleep: Avoid embarking on long drives after a full working day or without a full night's rest.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Rest before you hit the road, take breaks when needed, and help ensure everyone arrives home safely.
