Dangers Of Dehydrated Driving

A study suggests that driving while dehydrated and drink driving are equally dangerous.

16:24 20 April 2015

A recent study conducted by scientists from Loughborough University found that drivers who have not had enough water to drink are likely to make as many mistakes on the road as those who are under the influence of alcohol. 

 

The study involved analyzing the performance of drivers who had just 25ml of water an hour. The study found that the participants double the number of errors compared to those who were properly hydrated – but roughly the same number as someone who has consumed the legal limit of alcohol. 

 

The study, which was published in the journal Physiology and Behaviour, is the first study to establish a link between dehydration and driving ability. 

 

Professor Ron Maughan, who led the sport and exercise nutrition team conducting the study, tested each driver on one day when they were given 200ml of water every hour and another day when they were just given 25ml, which is equivalent of about five sips. 

 

Prof Maughan told the Telegraph: “We all deplore drink driving, but we don't usually think about the effects of other things that affect our driving skills, and one of those is not drinking and dehydration.

 

“There is no question that driving while incapable through drink or drugs increases the risk of accidents, but our findings highlight an unrecognised danger and suggest that drivers should be encouraged to make sure they are properly hydrated.”