A new survey from temporary car insurance provider Uswitch reveals that tiredness is a significant issue among professional drivers in the UK. More than four in five drivers, including those operating HGVs, buses, coaches, taxis, and delivery vehicles, admit to driving while fatigued. Of those surveyed, 87% confessed to driving tired, despite 94% acknowledging the dangers such as slower reaction times.

The study shows that work demands are a major cause of this trend. Nearly half of the respondents say they prioritise deliveries or urgent meetings, while 38% mention tight deadlines as the main reason. A further 27% feel pressure to reach their next job location, and 9% report not having the option to rest. Only 13% feel confident in managing tiredness effectively, with 4% describing themselves as constantly fatigued.

While 50% say they occasionally drive tired, 37% admit to doing so often. Many drivers rely on short-term fixes to stay awake. Over half turn to caffeine, while 38% use fresh air and breaks. Music and radio are used by 29%, 27% eat snacks, and 15% use air conditioning or fans. A smaller number try to stay awake by pushing through tiredness or talking with passengers. 7% do not stop at all, and 4% speak with someone to stay alert.

The survey highlights that employer support is lacking. Only 31% of drivers feel they are adequately supported in managing fatigue. Nearly half say they feel only somewhat supported, while 13% report no support at all. These figures indicate a gap in workplace practices that could improve driver safety.

Felicity Ferguson, a temporary car insurance expert at Uswitch, provides clear advice for drivers who may be at risk:

“Don’t ignore the warning signs. It’s important to spot the early signs of tiredness before they put you or others at risk. Yawning, heavy eyelids, trouble focusing, and even irritability can all be signs that your body is telling you it needs rest.

Your safety starts with sleep. Getting plenty of sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for safe driving. Sleep allows your body and brain to recharge, ensuring you’re physically and mentally prepared for the demands of driving. When well-rested, your reaction times improve, and you’re more alert to your surroundings.

If you feel sleepy, stop as soon as it’s safe to do so. Don’t try to push through tiredness, it’s one of the biggest risks on the road. Pull over somewhere safe, take a short nap, and get some fresh air.

Speak to your manager about concerns. If you’re too tired to drive safely, don’t hesitate to speak up, even if your workplace has a fatigue policy. These policies only work when they feel realistic in practice. Talk to your manager as early as possible, fatigue is easier to manage before it becomes a safety risk. Speaking up isn’t a weakness; it’s a sign of professionalism and helps build a safer driving culture.

Keep the focus on safety and solutions. Together, you might find alternatives, like sharing the drive with temporary car insurance, to keep things moving forward safely.”

These findings align with data from the Department for Transport, which attributes around 20% of road accidents in the UK to fatigue. The survey underscores the need for employers to introduce stronger fatigue management policies, encourage rest breaks, and improve communication to safeguard driver wellbeing and road safety.