Drivers warned of festive fatigue

Motorists have been warned that they are susceptible to the dual demons of drink and tiredness this Christmas by a leading UK safety group.

Recent research has shown that a quarter of all crashes that cause death or serious industry are related to one or more drivers lacking sleep.

While the police have launched their annual drink driving campaign, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is aiming to highlight that alcohol is not the only danger to face festive drivers.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA Head of Road Safety, said: "It is terrible that Christmases are still ruined needlessly because of drivers being over the limit or falling asleep.

"Fatigue is also a major problem at this time of year with people making long journeys to visit friends and relatives."

He advised: "If you know you are going to a party or are likely to have to drive a long distance at Christmas or New Year, then make arrangements now to ensure you will be safe to drive.

"Motorists should not set out on a long journey if they are tired and they should take rest breaks at least every two hours.

"Other things that can help are sharing driving, not being on the road in the early hours and making overnight stops."

Nearly 300 people a day were caught drink driving in December last year.