Driver drowsiness detection

What is a driver alert system?

A driver alert system is a system for drowsiness detection. It is also called driver attention alert or fatigue warning. The system looks for signs that you are less alert. For example:

• how you steer, such as small jerks or weaving;
• how well you stay in your lane;
• how long you have been driving;
• in some cars: your eyes and head, through a camera inside the car.

The system does not know how much you have slept. It may warn early, late or not at all.

Driver alert or coffee cup on your dashboard: what do you do?

Do you see a coffee cup or a message telling you to take a break? Take it seriously. Do this:

1. Keep driving calmly and watch the traffic closely.
2. Drive to the first safe place to stop, such as a car park or service area.
3. Take a real rest. If needed, let someone who is fit drive.

Do not stop on the hard shoulder to rest. It is for emergencies only. Still sleepy after the break? Then do not drive on.

Recognising tiredness behind the wheel

Your own signals matter more than a warning light. Stop when you notice this:

• heavy eyelids or yawning a lot;
• trouble concentrating;
• you cannot remember the last few kilometres;
• you touch the lines or weave in your lane.

You can fall asleep for a few seconds without noticing. This is called a microsleep. Coffee, loud music or an open window do not fix a lack of sleep. Rest and sleep do.

Start a long trip well rested and plan breaks. The advice: take a break of at least 15 minutes every 2 hours. Medicines and alcohol also make you less alert. More under alcohol and drugs.

How do I turn off the driver attention warning?

In some cars you can switch the warning off or change its settings in the menu. This differs per car. Switching it off does not make you less tired.

Is the system not working, or switched off? The answer stays the same: watch your own signals and stop in time. Does your car use a camera inside? Keep it uncovered.