We have all been warned about the risks of driver fatigue specifically on a bit longer trips as we try to find our vacation destination in record-smashing speed! However the rush and excitement of a long journey and the chance of some journey we push ourselves just that bit further than we should. 'Oh perhaps I could just drive for another hour before we have got a rest or lets clock up another 100kmh before we have that toilet break or cuppa!



It is in normally suggested that we stop each 120 minutes and take a quick break, re energize our bodies and have a stretch even exclusively for 5 minutes or thereabouts, take a drink or perhaps better switch drivers and put on your I-pod to hear some music. Speed is also a serious danger in the need to get somewhere quickly. In distant areas around Australia and the states it's not uncommon to hear about sad stories of drivers who've had a major accident thanks to the above. If only they'd taken a little bit of break or slowed down.

Usually on remote trips the monotony factor sets in on those long straight roads and it's so unnoticeable to lose our concentration and when we are traveling at such high speeds the smallest shortage of care, changing the CD, checking your cellular telephone, is all that it requires to drift off the road and disaster hits. Be conscious of all traffic at every point, especially the massive road trains and wagons that often take far riskier hazards with speed and fatigue.

Make an effort to travel as near possible in day light hours... The prevalence of accidents increases significantly once light falls into the dark of night. Dark roads and more so rambling local animals are indifferent to traffic. At nightfall or dawn is when to be most conscious of straying kangaroos or farm animals. The risk is they are simply blinded by auto full high beams or their hearing is bad enough that they haven't any concept you are rushing toward them. For some undiscovered reason many animals like to just have a snooze in the middle of the road, especially around full moon when they're confused with the change of light.



Be conscious of the exact road conditions too. With upkeep of remote roads at a record low conditions can be perilous and at various times of the year. Summer months bring dust and grit which can simply lead directly to bad traction while similarly winter months and torrential rain may cause roads to be greasy and the necessity to travel at much lower speed is important.

Ahead of heading on such trips do some sensible calculations of predicted journey times and be conservative in the distance you can travel at one time taking under consideration those needed rest breaks. Other preparations are vital too and not only the necessary automobile upkeep. Make certain you are travelling with a complete recent Travel Emergency Medical Kit which is kept convenient to be used in any accident or emergency. Add to your kit any little items for your individual medicines and make certain you have lots of excess water available both for you and the vehicle in a variety of plastic containers. Most long trips can be pleasurable and event free if you apply some reasonable pre planning and common sense while driving. Take care and arrive in one piece safe and well to enjoy the reward of a long monotonous trip.