Fasting during Ramadhan is a practice that entails abstaining from eating and drinking for a set period of time. While fasting has many potential benefits, it causes physiological changes in our bodies that affect our cognitive and physical abilities. One of the most significant changes is a decrease in blood glucose levels, which is our brain’s and muscles’ primary source of energy. As a result, our brain and body may become fatigued, lose concentration, and have slower reaction times, resulting in impaired driving abilities.
In addition to the direct effects of fasting, other factors such as dehydration, hunger, and lack of sleep can also contribute to fatigue and reduced alertness. When combined, these factors can increase the risk of car accidents, particularly during long drives or high-risk driving situations.
According to the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the vehicle crosses 83 metres without seeing anything when the driver closes his eyes for three seconds at a speed of 100 km/h. For this reason, it has urged drivers to exercise caution while driving during Ramadhan because lack of water and sugar in our bodies while fasting may cause fatigue. Driving fatigue can have serious consequences, including accidents and injuries. Signs of driver’s fatigue include difficulty keeping eyes open or focusing on the road, yawning or rubbing the eyes frequently, feeling restless or irritable, drifting out of the lane or hitting rumble strips, missing exits or turns, feeling drowsy or sleepy, having trouble remembering the last few miles driven, slow reaction times or difficulty making quick decisions.
ROP advises drivers that if they experience any of these symptoms while driving, they should stop and rest before continuing on the road. This can help avoid collisions.
To reduce the risk of car accidents during fasting, it is essential to take precautions such as avoiding long drives or high-risk driving situations, maintaining adequate hydration levels, and getting enough rest. It is also important to break the fast with healthy and balanced meals that provide enough energy and nutrients to sustain cognitive and physical abilities.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
