Drowsy driving: The science behind why you get sleepy in your car

New research has found there’s a reason why drivers feel drowsy in cars.

Scientists at RMIT say the natural vibrations of cars can affect alertness and concentration levels within just 15 minutes.

Fatigue is responsible for around 20 per cent of fatal crashes.

Head of Psychology at RMIT Professor Stephen Robinson explained the phenomenon on 3AW Mornings, saying there were a number of factors including the road, tyres, suspension and design of the car seat.

“We found that a particular range of vibrations does make people drowsy within 15-30 minutes,” he said.

“It’s certainly possible to redesign cars to filter out those particular frequencies that’s what we have been working with manufacturers to do.”

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