Stress can affect people in a variety of ways. However, there are a number of common risk factors associated with driving while stressed, which can result in an increased likelihood of driving errors or accidents. These include:


• Distraction of focus: when stressed, drivers are far more likely to not be fully concentrating on the road and driving task because of other things on their mind. This often means they’re not paying enough attention to their surroundings, which can increase the reaction times of responding to hazards on the road, potentially leading to incidents or collision that could have been avoided. Driver’s may be operating on ‘autopilot’ as their focus is elsewhere.
• Increased likelihood of errors and risk of accidents: stress can impact a person’s ability to sleep well, so can potentially cause physical symptoms such as drowsiness and fatigue. Eating habits or a person’s appetite can also be affected – again leading to physical symptoms such as nausea or dizziness. The physical side-effects of stress can increase the risk of drivers being involved in a road incident.
• More erratic driving behaviours: stress can increase driver aggression, which can lead to higher levels of road rage. This can also result in increased instances of speeding and heavy braking, which not only increases risk for drivers and those around them, but also increases wear and tear on the vehicle itself.