- Fatigue is a major cause of serious road accidents in Romania and Europe
- AETR limits: daily driving up to 9 hours; 4.5-hour breaks required
- Weekly rest must total 45 hours; daily rest 11 hours, or 9 thrice
- Plan trips with regular breaks to prevent fatigue and accidents
Driver fatigue remains one of the leading causes of serious road accidents, both in Romania and other European countries. Drowsiness and reduced ability to concentrate can have fatal consequences on the road, which is why there are strict regulations governing driving and rest periods.
Why fatigue is dangerous while driving
Any driver, professional or amateur, must understand the risks associated with driving while fatigued. The effects on reaction time and decision-making can be devastating.
Alarm signals you should recognize:
- Signs of fatigue - frequent blinking, repeated yawns, unstable head position
- Risk of reduced attention - difficulty maintaining focus on the road
- Signs that precede sleep - microsleeps of a few seconds, blurred vision
- Risk of nodding off at the wheel - the most dangerous stage that can lead to fatal crashes
European agreement concerning the work of crews of vehicles engaged in international road transport (AETR)
Romania has signed the European Agreement concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR), which sets clear rules for preventing driver fatigue.
Main rules of the AETR agreement:
Daily driving time: The total driving time between two daily rest periods must not exceed 9 hours. It may be extended to 10 hours, but only twice a week.
Mandatory breaks: After 4.5 hours of continuous driving, the driver must take a break of 45 minutes. Alternatively, breaks of at least 15 minutes each can be taken, interspersed during driving. Exception: when the driver enters directly into the daily rest period.
Weekly rest: After a maximum of 6 daily driving periods, a weekly rest is mandatory. The total duration of the weekly rest is 45 hours. It can be reduced to a minimum of 36 hours, provided it is compensated before the end of the third following week.
Daily rest: In every 24 hours period, the driver is entitled to a minimum rest of 11 hours consecutive. It may be reduced to 9 hours consecutive, but at most 3 times per week. The lost time must be compensated by rest no later than the end of the following week.
Two-driver crews: In periods of 30 hours with at least two drivers on board, each must have a minimum of 8 hours consecutive rest. Daily rest may be taken in the vehicle only if it is equipped with a berth and is stationary.
Importance of complying with the regulations
These rules are not mere bureaucratic formalities but vital road safety measures. Observing them can prevent:
- Serious accidents caused by sleep at the wheel
- Slower reaction times in emergency situations
- Reduced ability to correctly judge distances and speeds
- Decreased vigilance in heavy traffic conditions
Advice for all drivers
Although the AETR regulations apply mainly to professional drivers, the principles can be adopted by amateur drivers as well:
- Plan long trips with regular breaks every 2-3 hours
- Avoid driving when you feel tired or sleepy
- Stop immediately when you notice the first signs of fatigue
- Use alternative transport for long trips when you are exhausted
- Ensure you have had enough sleep before starting your journey
Following these principles can save lives and prevent road tragedies caused by fatigue.