More than four in five professional drivers admit to driving while tired
Wed, 04 Jun 2025
More than four in five (87%) professional drivers in the UK admit to driving while feeling tired, according to a report commissioned by temporary insurance providers, USwitch.
Around half of those drivers admit to doing so ‘occasionally’, but more than a third (37%) admit to doing so ‘often’. This is despite 94% of professional drivers being aware of the risks associated with driving while tired, such as slower reaction times.
Tight schedules and work responsibilities are common reasons why drivers keep going, even when tired
Nearly half of professional drivers said deliveries or urgent meetings often take priority when driving for work, while 38% pointed to tight deadlines. For 27%, the need to reach the next job location is a key reason for driving while tired.
Others mentioned not feeling they have the option to rest (9%), or feeling constantly tired (4%), and only 13% said they feel confident managing tiredness safely.
The findings show that employers and teams have a chance to work together to put safety first and make sure drivers feel supported to take breaks when they need to.
More than half of professional drivers drink caffeine to combat fatigue To combat tiredness when driving for work, over half of drivers rely on caffeine, while just 38% take a break, putting quick fixes ahead of safer solutions.
Opening the window for fresh air is another popular tactic, used by 38% of drivers, while 29% turn to music or the radio, and 27% reach for a snack.
A total of 7% of drivers admit to pushing through tiredness without stopping and 4% call someone or chat with a passenger to stay alert.
Alarmingly, 13% of professional drivers said they didn’t feel supported by their employer at all. This suggests there may be opportunities for employers and teams to have clearer conversations and implement practical steps to help drivers stay safe on the road.
"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. 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," says Felicity Ferguson, temporary car insurance expert at Uswitch.
