Why being dehydrated behind the wheel can be as dangerous as drink-driving
Many Brits are unaware of the impact dehydration can have on driving ability - and it could increase your chance of being involved in a traffic collision
NOT drinking enough water and getting behind the wheel could be as dangerous as drink-driving, research has found.
Dehydrated motorists could be a major risk on the road, especially with Britain's heatwave in full swing.
Researchers at Loughborough University revealed the impact dehydration can have on driving ability.
According to their findings, even mild dehydration could affect reaction times, decision making and focus as much as a driver who is over the legal alcohol limit.
Dehydration can have a major influence on motorists' mental and physical state, with other symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, headache and muscle cramps also having a negative impact on driving skill.
And it seems Brits aren't aware of the dangers of dehydrated driving.
How to tell if you are dehydrated - the signs and symptoms to watch out for
You could be dehydrated if you:
- Feel thirsty
- Have dark yellow and strong smelling pee
- Feel dizzy or lightheaded
- Feel tired
- Have a dry mouth, lips or eyes
- Are peeing little, and fewer than 4 times a day
You are more at risk of dehydration if you:
- Have diabetes
- Have been experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea
- Spent too long in the sun (heatstroke)
- Have sweated a lot after exercising
- Have a high temperature of 38C or more
- Are taking medicines that make you pee more (diuretics)
A survey by found a whopping 84 per cent of motorists felt drink-driving was far more dangerous than not having enough water.
And around three in five Brits had no idea of the risks at all.
With just under 70 per cent of accidents on UK roads being attributed to driver error, dehydration could be a major factor in motorists losing focus and being involved in a collision.
But be careful of topping up your water consumption while you are out on the road.
Drinking water or eating while driving can also be distracting and land you in trouble with police for not being in proper control of your vehicle.
So make sure you are fully hydrated before you set off on your journey.
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Mike Thompson, Leasing Options Brand Manager, said: “Showing caution and drinking more water will not only have a positive effect on the body but will also ensure motorists stand a far greater chance of reaching their destination safe and well.
“When starting your car, ready for the morning commute, you may not think drinking an extra glass of water before leaving the house would affect your driving abilities, but you would be wrong.
“So, make it your prerogative and try carrying a water bottle in the car or have an extra glass of water at the beginning and end of your working day to avoid dehydrated driving."