The author discusses the research that has been carried out into driver working hours, fatigue and accidents. The use of regulations controlling driving hours is examined and a number of limitations identified. Distinctions are drawn between day-time and night-time driving and between driving in urban areas and remote areas. The effects of rest breaks and of prior activity are considered. The author concludes that driving hours are a measure of impairment but a poor one. Systems for the detection of driver fatigue are considered to be a better alternative. Work being carried out in developing such systems to date is noted. For the covering abstract see C 45915 (IRRD 876074).
Abstract