Factors of Fatigue on Long-route Drivers in Bangladesh

Abstract

In various studies, driver fatigue is a major contributing factor to fatal road accidents. In Bangladesh, road accidents and fatalities increased by 13.43% and 15.7% respectively, in 2021 compared with 2020. It is growing substantially and frighteningly, resulting in a significant loss of life and resources. Drivers in Bangladesh are more likely to have fatigue-related accidents, which increases their vulnerability on the social and economic aspects as well as their probability of becoming disabled. This study was conducted in three districts (Dinajpur, Gaibandha, Rajshahi) which are northwest region of Bangladesh. In these, study 103 drivers of long route above 400km were interviewed through discussions to gather information on drivers, such as their age, driving history, economic conditions, the times of day when they are most likely affected by fatigue, causes of fatigue, and suggestions from their perspective. The study found 17 factors and the most important factors are lack of sleep (17%), traffic jams (8%), police harassment (8%), bad road conditions (13%), daytime driving restriction (1%) and drug consumption (1%). This study will assist policymakers in creating an environment to adopt appropriate preventive measures to reduce fatigue induced accidents.