When a driver is feeling fatigued, what should they do?
a. Play the radio loudly
b. Stop the car and rest
c. Alternate speed up and down
d. Open all the windows
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. Stop the car and rest.
When a driver is feeling fatigued, it is essential to stop the car and take a break. Fatigue significantly impairs reaction time, decision-making ability, and concentration, all of which are critical for safe driving. Continuing to drive while drowsy can increase the risk of accidents due to slower reflexes and poor judgment.
Option a, playing the radio loudly, may provide temporary distraction, but it does not address the underlying problem of fatigue. Similarly, option c, alternating speeds, might only make the driver more distracted and does not help alleviate the tiredness. Opening windows, as suggested in option d, could provide some fresh air but will not significantly reduce fatigue.
Stopping the car and resting is the safest course of action. Drivers should find a safe place to pull over, such as a rest stop or a parking lot, and take a short nap if possible. Even a 15-20 minute break can help restore alertness. If rest isn’t immediately available, consuming caffeine can provide a temporary boost in alertness, but it is not a long-term solution.
Longer trips should be planned with regular breaks every 2 hours, and if a driver feels fatigued, they should not hesitate to stop until they feel sufficiently rested to continue driving safely. Ignoring fatigue while driving is a major contributor to accidents, and addressing it promptly can prevent dangerous situations on the road.