What is the effect of fatigue on driving ability?

Fatigue significantly affects driving ability by impairing crucial cognitive functions such as attention, reaction times, and judgment. When a driver is fatigued, their awareness of their surroundings diminishes, making it more difficult to respond promptly to changing traffic conditions or unexpected hazards. This impairment can mirror the effects of alcohol, which is well-documented in studies showing that both fatigue and alcohol consumption can slow down a person's mental and physical responses.

Moreover, as fatigue sets in, the brain can struggle to process information effectively, leading to errors in judgment. This can manifest in a variety of dangerous behaviors, such as misjudging distances, failing to notice signals or signs, and an overall decrease in the ability to make sound decisions while driving. Given that safe driving requires alertness and quick thinking, understanding the impact of fatigue is crucial for maintaining road safety.