Sleep Requirements for Safe Driving: Essential Guide to Preventing Fatigue on UK Roads

Driver fatigue leads to numerous accidents on UK roads, with sleeping while driving being one of the most dangerous scenarios possible. Between a quarter and a third of all serious collisions involve someone who was driving for work at the time, with fatigue being a significant contributing factor.

Sleeping in Moving Vehicles: What the Law Says

A common question is whether passengers can sleep in a campervan or motorhome while it’s moving in the UK. While it’s legal for passengers to sleep in the back of a campervan or motorhome while someone else is driving, they must use the designated, forward-facing seats with seatbelts when the vehicle is in motion. Sleeping in side-facing or rear-facing seats, or in beds, while the vehicle is moving is both illegal and dangerous.

Strategies to Avoid Sleep While Driving

To avoid sleeping while driving, professional drivers and regular motorists should:

• Take regular breaks (at least 15 minutes every two hours)
• Maintain proper ventilation in the vehicle
• Keep the temperature moderate rather than too warm
• Engage in conversation with passengers when possible
• Listen to engaging audio content
• Pull over for a power nap if needed

Warning Signs You’re at Risk of Sleeping While Driving

Your body provides clear signals when it’s becoming dangerously tired:

• Heavy eyelids and frequent blinking
• Difficulty focusing on the road
• Missing exits or road signs
• Drifting within your lane
• Memory gaps about the last few miles driven
• Head nodding

Professional drivers, and recreational drivers who like to do long distances usually do fatigue awareness training to help them understand the factors behind sleepiness at the wheel, and whether there are underlying medical conditions contributing to it.

Managing Night Driving and Long Journeys

For those driving campervans or motorhomes on long journeys, it’s crucial to plan regular stops at designated rest areas or campsites. While passengers might be tempted to sleep in the back while travelling, remind them that using proper seating with seatbelts is essential for safety and legal compliance.

Emergency Measures When Feeling Sleepy

If you feel sleepy while driving, take immediate action:

1. Find a safe place to stop (not the hard shoulder unless it’s an absolute emergency)
2. Drink a caffeinated beverage
3. Take a 15-20 minute nap (this is called a “caffeine nap” and is particularly effective)
4. Walk around for a few minutes to increase alertness

Long-term Prevention Strategies

To minimise the risk of sleeping while driving, maintain good sleep habits:

• Get adequate regular sleep (7-9 hours per night)
• Plan journeys to avoid driving between 11 pm and 6 am where possible
• Don’t start long journeys if you’re already tired
• Consider sharing driving duties on long trips, especially in campervans and motorhomes
• Be aware that certain medications can increase drowsiness

Remember, while it might be tempting to “push through” when feeling tired, especially on long campervan or motorhome trips, the consequences of falling asleep at the wheel can be catastrophic. As Roadcraft emphasises, no journey is worth risking your life or the lives of others. If you’re too tired to drive safely, stop and rest.

Note: This article does not constitute legal advice. Always check current UK regulations regarding vehicle use and passenger safety.