The vehicle recycling price check service Scrap Car Comparison has advised motorists to pack one item in their car before getting behind the wheel this autumn.
With longer, darker nights and wetter weather, many motorists can find driving on long-distance journeys much more stressful during the autumn months.
However, David Kottaun, Operations Manager at Scrap Car Comparison, highlighted that drivers can stay alert by staying hydrated whilst behind the wheel.
He explained: “Everyone knows that driving under the influence of alcohol, or ‘drink driving’ is something that should be avoided, but it’s quite staggering to realise that being dehydrated can have a similar impact on our driving ability.
“I’m sure most drivers will relate to being on a long drive without enough to drink, only to find themselves feeling somewhat under the weather, or with a bad headache when they reach their destination – particularly if it’s a warm day!”
Whilst drinking behind the wheel can be a risky thing to do, potentially leading to the driver becoming distracted, safely drinking a bottle of water or juice can help drivers avoid dehydration.
According to a report published by Loughborough University, drivers who are not properly hydrated behind the wheel make the same number of mistakes as those who are under the influence of two alcoholic drinks.
As a result, when a driver is thirsty, their reaction times significantly slow down and they become more easily distracted, putting them at a significantly increased risk of accidents.
David also recommended that motorists make sure to take regular breaks at service stations when travelling on long-distance trips.
He added: “Similarly, it can be tempting to avoid any service station stops by consuming less liquid, to try and push on through the journey. However, taking regular breaks is always advisable for long journeys to help reduce tiredness, so, needing to take these stops is actually only going to be a good thing and beneficial for our driving overall.
“Hopefully, hearing these statistics may give some drivers a wake-up call, and encourage them to make more of an effort with their hydration in future.”
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