The closing of the lay-bys on motorways by TII flies in the face of their own advice not to drive if you are tired, a Galway TD has warned.
Sean Canney Independent TD has criticized TII for their decision to close the lay-bys on the motorways to cars despite their advice to drivers not to drive if tired.
"It makes no sense and I see daily the number of cars that use the lay-by to break their journey.
“I have been in contact with TII, and they have confirmed that they intend to close all lay-bys to cars and vans and let trucks use them only," he said.
An angered Deputy Canney said that the decision is incredulous at a time when every road driver is asked not to drive if tired.
"Tiredness kills but someone in an office somewhere has decided that the everyday drivers should not pull into a lay-by for a rest in the future.
I am on the motorway most weeks and I see plenty of use of lay-bys by cars, vans, and trucks. What happens if you want to pull in because of bad weather, tiredness or you need to stretch your legs.
"I see major signs on the roadways advising drivers of the danger of tiredness and advising them to take a break," he said.
Driving while tired poses serious risks to both the driver and others on the road. Fatigue impairs cognitive functions, slows reaction times, and decreases overall alertness, making it a significant contributor to traffic accidents. The dangers associated with driving when tired are comparable to those of driving under the influence of alcohol. Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures is crucial for road safety.
When a person is tired, their ability to concentrate diminishes, leading to impaired decision-making and slower reaction times. This can result in a decreased awareness of the surrounding environment, making it difficult to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. Studies have shown that fatigued drivers are more prone to drifting out of their lanes, missing traffic signals, and even falling asleep at the wheel. The consequences of such lapses in attention can be catastrophic, causing accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
To mitigate the dangers of driving while tired, it is essential for individuals to recognize the signs of fatigue and take appropriate actions. Common indicators of fatigue include heavy eyelids, frequent yawning, difficulty focusing, and drifting between lanes. When these signs are present, drivers should prioritize safety and consider alternatives to driving.
One of the most effective strategies is to get an adequate amount of sleep before embarking on a journey. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to ensure optimal alertness and cognitive function. If planning a long drive, it's crucial to schedule breaks every two hours or 100 miles to combat fatigue. During breaks, stretching, walking, and even a short nap can help refresh the mind and body.
In cases where immediate relief is needed, consuming caffeine can provide a temporary boost in alertness. However, it's essential to remember that caffeine is not a substitute for adequate rest, and its effects can wear off quickly, leading to a false sense of security.
Technology can also play a role in preventing fatigue-related accidents. Some vehicles are equipped with driver-assistance systems that monitor signs of drowsiness, such as erratic steering patterns or unusual braking behavior. Additionally, smartphone apps are available that can detect signs of fatigue based on driving behavior and provide timely reminders for breaks.
