Dehydrated Driving Same as Drink-driving
Driving while dehydrated has the potential to be as dangerous as drink-driving, according to a new study conducted by the vehicle leasing company, Leasing Options.
This research suggests that similar to the effects of alcohol, dehydration can impair a person’s mental and physical well-being. In fact, in the study 47.1 per cent of dehydrated drivers reported a loss of focus, 59.3 per cent reported a loss of concentration and 42.7 per cent reported slower reaction times.
Yet, what can make dehydration dangerous is its pervasiveness, as 55 per cent of drivers drink less than the recommended daily water amount (1.2 litres). Leasing Options’ research suggests that a significant portion of all vehicle crashes are caused by dehydration.
For that reason, if your organisation employs any drivers or if employees have to travel regularly for work, it is important that they understand how to stay hydrated with the following tips:
- Bring an adequate amount of fluids to stay hydrated throughout the trip. For each hour spent in the car, drivers need to drink one glass of rehydrating fluids. In addition, drivers should avoid an excessive amount of caffeinated drinks, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Refrain from driving in a hot vehicle, which can accelerate dehydration.
- Take frequent driving breaks during long trips so drivers can rest and rehydrate.