Drowsy driving is a killer on our roads, and it’s something that has affected a huge number of Australians.
According to research commissioned by dashcam manufacturer Nextbase, one in six Aussies (16 per cent) has fallen asleep behind the wheel.
Men are more likely to try and drive through the drowsiness, with 22 per cent of male respondents admitting to falling asleep while behind the wheel.
A separate study conducted by Monash University estimated an Australian dies every day after falling asleep while driving. It also estimates drowsy driving contributes to 20 per cent of Australian car accidents annually.
Mazda 3
In 2021, there were 1126 deaths on Australian roads.
This latest report is being used to promote the Nextbase’s dash cams, as well as the emergency features it offers if you do get into an accident of some sort while driving.
It’s worth noting that a number of new cars have emergency calling built in from the factory now.
Toyota recently expanded the availability and functionality of its Toyota Connected Services (TCS) across a number of its models.
Toyota Camry
Features such as SOS emergency calling, automatic collision notification, and stolen vehicle tracking is now available on the Toyota Yaris Cross, Camry, HiAce, Granvia, LandCruiser 300, HiLux and Fortuner.
Similar connected services systems with emergency calling functionality are also available in BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi models.
Nextbase ambassador and Supercar driver David Reynolds is urging Australian drivers to stay safe over the July school holiday period and be prepared for long drives.
“It is always so important to be safe on the road, for you and your family as well as other road users,” said Mr Reynolds.
Hyundai Tucson
“Along with preparing your car for the trip, you need to prepare yourself and plan your breaks and rest. Preparing for a long drive includes a good night’s sleep before you leave.”
The survey of 1199 people was conducted online between November 26 and December 8, 2021, by market research company YouGov on behalf of dashcam company Nextbase.
The survey was also conducted in Sweden, Canada, the Czech Republic, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, the UK, and the USA.
Findings from this survey are, naturally, representative as they don’t capture responses from the whole driving population.
