New research shows overwhelming support from drivers for new ‘sleep-driving’ tests, similar to existing roadside drink and drug checks.

Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said the new blood tests could have a very real impact on safety

A survey by Startline Motor Finance has found 84% of UK motorists would back the introduction of such tests, which could enable people to be prosecuted for driving while fatigued.

The idea is being pioneered in Australia, where research funded by the Government’s Office of Road Safety could see a blood test available within two years. This would use biomarkers to show whether someone has had any sleep during the previous 24 hours and could crack down on drivers and employers putting other people’s lives at risk.

Latest research indicates that driving with less than five hours of sleep is just as risky as being over the legal limit for alcohol and 35% of motorists in the Startline research agreed that fatigue is an important road safety issue.

Yet, the survey, carried out among 301 consumers and 55 dealers, saw 63% of respondents admit to having driven following very little sleep while a shocking 10% of drivers say they have almost fallen asleep at the wheel.

Fatigue is a factor in one in five road accidents in the UK roads – and Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said the new blood tests could have a very real impact on safety.

“What is perhaps surprising is the very high degree of backing for the idea among motorists. We think this suggests that drivers already recognise fatigue as an issue on our roads and recognise that the new test could play a part in helping the problem. It appears that any legislators interested in the concept would be pushing at an open door.”

The Startline Used Car Tracker also showed that many motorists are actively managing their own fatigue when driving – 43% would postpone a journey if they hadn’t slept enough and 13% say they often take breaks when driving a long distance. Just 3% don’t believe fatigue is a problem on the roads.

Burgess continued: “These findings show that many people are already being responsible about fatigue when it comes to getting behind the wheel and the number of people taking risks with sleep driving appears to be comparatively few. However, the new test could serve as a valuable deterrent to those who are taking to the roads without sufficient sleep.”