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A professional driver has to be alert behind the wheel at all times. Unexpected events on the road need quick thinking and fast reaction - something a driver cannot do when he is TIRED!

Driver fatigue has been identified as a number one killer on the road. Teach drivers to recognise the signs :

• Eyes close or lose focus
• Constant yawning
• Lack of concentration, losing track of time
• Battling to keep an even speed
• Not recalling driving the last few miles
• Drifting in and out of traffic lanes
• Missing the highway exit / offramp.

Once drivers are aware of the symptoms, they can combat Driver Fatigue by :

• Getting a good nights sleep before driving
• Planning rest stops ahead of time - and sticking to the plan!
• Not driving when tired - stop and REST!
• Getting plenty of fresh air while driving
• Regularly checking mirrors, speed and the road ahead to keep the eyes moving.

Vision

A recent study conducted by general practitioner Dr Francois Swanepoel, determined that out of 580 professional drivers, 57 had unacceptable visual ability, and 16 were declared permanently unfit to drive!

Factors that contribute to poor eyesight are :

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Ear Infections and sinus
• Overactive thyroid function
• Glaucoma - increased pressure inside the eye
• Cataracts
• Symptoms of deteriorating eyesight :
• Constant headaches or migraines
• Blurred vision
• Delays in focusing - looking at something close by and then focusing on something far away
• Dizziness and constant sore, burning and red eyes.

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