Driver Fatigue: How to Spot the Early Warning Signs Before Hitting the Road

As we approach the Easter long weekend, many Australians are preparing for road trips to visit family or enjoy a holiday getaway. But with more people behind the wheel, the risk of accidents significantly increases — especially those caused by driver fatigue.

In 2024 alone, 23 people lost their lives in road crashes across Australia during the Easter long weekend. According to Right2Drive’s General Manager Blake Parker, this spike in fatalities is often due to long-distance travel, increased traffic, and risky driving behaviours such as speeding, distraction, drug or alcohol use, and fatigue.

Among these, driver fatigue is particularly dangerous — accounting for up to 30% of major road accidents in Australia each year. Here’s what to watch for and how to stay safe.

💤 5 Early Warning Signs of Driver Fatigue

Knowing the symptoms of fatigue can help prevent a serious crash. Below are the five most common signs to watch out for:

1. Sore or Heavy Eyes

One of the first signs of fatigue is tired or droopy eyelids. This can lead to microsleeps – brief, involuntary moments of sleep lasting just a few seconds – while still driving.

Warning signs: Yawning, eye rubbing, difficulty concentrating. What to do: Pull over in a safe location, stretch, and rest for 15–30 minutes. Don’t begin your journey if you’re already feeling drowsy.

2. Slowed Reaction Time

Fatigue slows your brain’s ability to process and respond to road conditions.

Warning signs: You’re late reacting to traffic lights, braking cars, or sudden hazards. What to do: Stay calm, reduce speed, and maintain a safe following distance. Pull over at the first safe opportunity.

3. Drifting Between Lanes

Lack of control over your vehicle can lead to lane drifting – a common indicator of drowsiness.

Warning signs: Veering across lines, overcorrecting steering. What to do: Reduce speed, regain control, and stop to rest. If you spot another car drifting, keep your distance.

4. Inconsistent Speed

Fatigued drivers often lose focus and may unintentionally speed up or slow down.

Warning signs: Driving below or above the limit without realising. What to do: If you're a passenger, check in with the driver. For drivers, recognise this behaviour and take a break.

5. Loss of Concentration

Monotonous stretches of road, such as highways or motorways, can reduce mental stimulation and increase the likelihood of fatigue.

Warning signs: Daydreaming, zoning out, or not remembering the last few kilometres driven. What to do: Take a break every two hours. Stretch your legs, grab some water, and recharge.

🛑 There’s No Substitute for Sleep

No amount of coffee or loud music can replace a good night’s rest. If you’re planning a long drive this Easter, make sure you’re well-rested and take regular breaks.

🚗 Drive Safe This Easter with Tynan Motors

Whether you're heading away for the long weekend or just driving around town, Tynan Motors reminds all drivers to stay alert and prioritise safety. If your vehicle needs a check-up before a road trip, book in at one of our service centres across Tynan Subaru, Tynan Hyundai, Tynan Mitsubishi, and more.

Let’s all do our part to make this Easter holiday a safe one on Australian roads.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: CarSales.com.au & right2drive.com.au