Fatigue, heat and traffic congestion can affect drivers more than the condition of their vehicle. Pavel Řezáč from the Transport Research Centre explained how to prepare for safer holiday travel.
As the summer holidays begin, thousands of families take to the roads. While the technical condition of the vehicle is important, safe travel also depends on the driver's physical and mental readiness. Fatigue, high temperatures and traffic congestion can significantly affect attention, reaction time and decision-making behind the wheel.
These topics were discussed by Pavel Řezáč, Director of the Division of Transport Technologies and Human Factors at the Transport Research Centre, who appeared on Czech Television's Studio 6.
During the interview, he pointed out that drivers often underestimate their own preparedness for long journeys. He recommended starting the trip well rested, expecting traffic delays, drinking enough fluids and taking regular breaks every two hours or sooner if signs of fatigue appear. He also explained that high temperatures can increase irritability, reduce concentration and slow reaction times. For this reason, drivers should adapt their journey to actual conditions rather than trying to stick rigidly to their planned arrival time. The interview also covered practical recommendations for travelling abroad, including vehicle equipment, national traffic regulations and planning longer journeys in electric vehicles during hot weather.
The full interview is available in the Studio 6 archive on Czech Television.