Transport for NSW has launched National Fatigue Week with a renewed warning that driver fatigue remains one of the state’s most underestimated road safety risks.
New attitudinal research shows that around one in four drivers report experiencing driver fatigue while behind the wheel. One in nine say they have crashed or nearly crashed because they were tired.
Despite that, most motorists believe they can push through to their destination.
Transport for NSW Secretary Josh Murray said fatigue contributed to 73 deaths on NSW roads in 2025. In 2024, 74 people died in crashes where tiredness was a factor.
“This is a problem. New studies show the majority of people can identify the warning signs of fatigue, but still brush them aside,” Murray said. “Fatigue is a silent killer on our roads. As drivers and riders, we need to be more aware that the sleepiness signs all lead to death and injury that can be avoided.”
The research found that two-thirds of surveyed drivers agree that feeling tired does not stop most people from driving. Many also underestimate the risk of driver fatigue on short trips.
More than a quarter of respondents admitted to driving while tired on shorter journeys. Most said they experienced fatigue between 6 am and 9 am, in the afternoon and at dusk.
Murray said warning signs should trigger immediate action.
“Take a break regularly to restore energy. But as soon as you experience any of the warning signs, including sore or tired eyes, yawning, restlessness, poor reaction times and oversteering, don’t push on until your head drops and you’re asleep at the wheel. Then it’s too late.”
Certain groups were more likely to report driving while fatigued, including shift workers, drivers aged 17 to 39, provisional licence holders, motorcyclists and First Nations people.
Two-thirds of drivers reported experiencing at least one warning sign of driver fatigue in the past year.
The study also found fatigue is recognised as risky behaviour, but not at the same level as drink driving, drug driving or mobile phone use.
“Fatigue is not something we can easily test for. Technology is improving, but people are ignoring what they know to be a risk,” Murray said. “Whether you’re on a long or short trip, please don’t be complacent. 73 people died from fatigue-related crashes last year, probably thinking they could push on to their next stop. It’s better to arrive late than never.”