A groundbreaking study could see drivers with certain medical conditions given new greenlight to travel on UK roads.
The research by Loughborough University investigates obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and aims to assess whether ‘caffeine-naps’ – a caffeinated drink followed by a brief nap – can effectively combat driver fatigue in those with the sleep disorder.
Led by Professor Ashleigh Filtness, an expert in Transport, Human Factors, and Sleep Science, the study utilises cutting-edge driving simulators to replicate real-world conditions.
Participants are fitted with sensors to monitor brain activity as they navigate virtual motorways.
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Medical conditions must be disclosed to the DVSA
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This innovative approach could potentially revolutionise safety guidance for OSA patients, addressing a critical road safety issue that contributed to nearly 1,200 collisions in 2021 alone, according to Government figures.
The study’s significance extends beyond individual drivers, addressing a broader road safety concern.
Fatigue-related collisions remain a persistent problem on UK roads, with Government data revealing 1,195 such incidents in 2021. For OSA patients, the risk of drowsiness while driving is particularly acute.
The Loughborough research seeks to evaluate whether the widely recommended ‘caffeine-nap’ technique is equally effective for those with sleep disorders.
This approach involves consuming a caffeinated beverage followed by a brief 15-minute nap. However, its universal applicability has not been thoroughly tested.
By focusing on drivers with OSA, the study aims to develop tailored safety guidance, potentially reducing fatigue-related accidents and improving road safety for a vulnerable group of motorists.
Participants are required to complete a series of drives in a state-of-the-art driving simulator while wearing small sensors that record electrical activity in the brain.
This setup allows researchers to closely monitor drivers’ responses and fatigue levels in a controlled environment.
To be eligible, participants must be adults with treated OSA who drive regularly, hold a full licence, and live within 40 minutes of Loughborough University. The researchers are providing taxi transport to ensure easy access for volunteers.
However, the study is not suitable for everyone. Those with epilepsy, caffeine intolerance, or motion sickness are excluded from participation.
This careful screening process ensures the safety of participants and the integrity of the research data.
Filtness said: “This is a great opportunity for local residents with OSA to help shape new safety guidance specifically targeted at supporting drivers like themselves. We should all know what to do if we experience driver sleepiness and deserve access to scientifically evaluated advice specific to our context.”
Participant Gary Spence shared his experience: “The simulation is very tiresome, you do tend to drift off and I have actually crashed once, lost control and went up the embankment.”
“To me it’s very valuable, you hear people talk about ‘I have a nap’, or ‘I have a cup of coffee’, but with this study we’ll be able to scientifically prove which one works the best and put some hard facts behind what everybody peddles as the best thing to do.”
The Loughborough University study, funded by The Road Safety Trust, is actively seeking more participants with OSA. This presents a unique opportunity for local residents to contribute to potentially life-saving research.
The findings could lead to new, evidence-based guidance for OSA patients, medical professionals, and the DVSA.
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Driver fatigue causes hundreds of collisions a year
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Sonya Hurt, chief executive of The Road Safety Trust, explained: “Driver fatigue causes hundreds of collisions a year. It is a really serious issue. This project can play a big role.”
Those interested in participating or learning more about the study are encouraged to contact Loughborough University.
