Campaign urges drivers to combat fatigue ahead of summer getaways

New research reveals millions of motorists are planning overnight journeys despite many admitting they will set off without adequate rest, prompting renewed warnings over the dangers of driver fatigue.

National Highways is urging motorists to prioritise rest breaks and avoid driving while tired this summer after new research highlighted the significant role fatigue continues to play in serious motorway collisions.

As families prepare for holiday travel, the organisation is reminding drivers to stop for at least 15 minutes every two hours, warning that tiredness can impair concentration and reaction times long before motorists recognise the symptoms themselves.

The campaign follows research indicating that 73% of parents expect to make long-distance journeys between 7pm and 7am during the summer holiday period, while almost half admit they are not always properly rested before setting off.

Analysis of national collision data from 2024 reveals that fatigue remains a major factor in serious road traffic incidents.

National Highways found that 41% of all fatigue-related fatal and serious injury collisions on England’s motorways and major A-roads occurred between May and August, with almost two-thirds taking place overnight or during the early hours between 7pm and 7am.

The findings underline the increased risks associated with overnight holiday travel, when many families choose to avoid daytime congestion by driving through the night.

Colin Stevenson, Road Safety Information Lead at National Highways, said many motorists underestimate how quickly tiredness can affect their ability behind the wheel.

Colin said: “Fatigue can affect your concentration and reactions before you realise it. Our research shows more drivers will be travelling overnight or early-morning this summer, yet many aren’t making sure they’re properly rested before setting off.

“Whether you’re heading off on holiday, visiting family or making a long journey, make sure you are well rested and never push through tiredness. Remember to plan at least a 15-minute break for every two hours of driving, whatever time you’re on the road.”

Experts say one of the greatest dangers associated with fatigue is that drivers frequently fail to recognise how much their performance has deteriorated.

Professor John Groeger, Professor of Psychology at Nottingham Trent University, explained that prolonged periods behind the wheel gradually reduce concentration and decision-making ability, even when motorists believe they remain alert.

Prof Groeger said: “Driving is a complex task that requires sustained concentration, yet many drivers underestimate how demanding long-distance journeys can be. The danger is that people become less aware of their own declining performance.

“This happens because we spend too long driving without a break, and drive when we have been awake for too long.”

With millions of people expected to take to the roads over the summer holiday period, National Highways is encouraging motorists to build regular rest stops into their journeys, avoid setting off when already tired and never ignore the signs of fatigue.

Simple measures such as taking regular breaks, sharing driving responsibilities where possible and ensuring a good night’s sleep before travelling can significantly reduce the likelihood of fatigue-related collisions.