Dehydration.

It is no question that a number of factors affect your ability to drive. We’re all aware of the dangers of drugs, alcohol, tiredness and stress and the problems they may cause whilst driving. But one danger that’s often put aside has recently been discovered to be among the most dangerous of all; dehydration.

Researchers at Loughborough University have recently published a study which shows that only mild dehydration drastically impairs your ability to drive. The results revealed that drivers who only had 25ml of water an hour (enough to be considered mildly-dehydrated) made more than double the amount of mistakes compared to those who were properly hydrated – The same number of mistakes as those who were drink-driving!

The tests were performed over two days in a laboratory-based simulator, and also showed that dehydration can result in mood changes, reductions in concentration and alertness, impaired mental functioning, and negatively affecting short-term memory.

Whilst it’s important to remember to stay hydrated, it’s crucial when travelling longer distances, especially as many drivers deliberately restrict the amount they drink to reduce toilet stops on a long journey. We stress the importance of educating your pupils about the dangers of driving whilst dehydrated, so please make sure to let your pupils know, and share this article amongst friends, pupils and colleagues.

For Information on the study (which can be found in the medical journal Physiology and Behaviour) visit the Loughborough University website. And to view the dehydrated driving awareness campaign posters, Click Here.

Were you aware of the dangers of driving dehydrated? Let us know in the comments.

– See more at: http://www.cacars.co.uk/news/Motoring/driving-dehydrated.html#sthash.orXO3lfj.dpuf