In a new Ipsos survey, it showed that one-in-four (24%) BC drivers admitted to momentarily nodding off while driving in the past year.
Half of all drivers surveyed also shared that they’ve driven while tired or drowsy in the past year.
ICBC Spokesperson Greg Harper said this time of year, particularly during the BC Day long weekend, there are a lot of people heading out on a road trip.
“They’re going on a camping trip, going to a vacation home, they’re driving a longer distance. That combined with the hot weather, perhaps driving at times you’re not use to driving at, these are all factors that can lead to you being fatigued when behind the wheel. If you’re really fatigued that’s potentially putting yourself and others at risk.”
Harper said it’s important to be prepared when heading on a longer road trip.
“Checking out DriveBC.ca is very important not only to check for any potential road closures, but to see where rest areas are. If you know you’re taking a lengthy drive plan to have some stops along the way, maybe you have someone with you that you can switch off with. You don’t want to be tired when you’re behind the wheel because if you are you are putting yourself and others at risk.”
Harper shared some of the warning signs of fatigue that maybe it’s best to pull over when safe to do so.
“You’re finding it difficult to stay within your lane, you’re having to concentrate on your steering. Your speed is creeping up or down. You don’t recall the last few minutes of driving. You’re daydreaming, you’re eyes are starting to feel heavy, these are all signs that you’re fatigued and you need to pull over when safe to do so.”
According to ICBC among drivers who reported driving while fatigued in the past year 68 percent cited lack of sleep the night before, 53 percent pointed to driving too long without a break and 48 percent attributed it to the time of day they travelled.
ICBC said in Northern BC 86 people are injured or killed in crashes involving driver fatigue every year.
Over the BC Day long weekend, on average, 24 people are injured in 130 crashes in Northern BC every year according to ICBC.
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