Dehydrated drivers are considered to be as dangerous on the road as someone over the alcohol limit, according to a study published in the scientific journal Physiology and Behavior, featured in the Wall Street Journal. Therefore, it now means that it is essential for motorists to stay adequately hydrated when embarking on lengthy journeys.
According to research by Loughborough University, motorists who are even slightly dehydrated may struggle behind the wheel.
This in turn can lead to errors that could potentially jeopardise the safety of passengers, drivers, and other motorists on the road.
Not drinking enough water can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, tiredness, cramps, and loss of focus.
On top of that, it could see drivers receiving a fine of £1,000 fine if police believe they do not have proper control of the vehicle due to dehydration.
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It should be mostly clear and if too yellow, it can indicate that more fluids are needed.
Traveling at higher elevations or extremely hot temperatures increases the chance of dehydration.
There is no magic number for how many liters of water drivers need to drink in a day, but they should be consuming plenty of fluids before and during their long trips.
Sports drinks that include electrolytes are also good if motorists become severely dehydrated.
But drinking water or eating while driving can also be distracting and land motorists in trouble with police for not being in proper control of their vehicle.
Drivers should take regular breaks on long journeys.
Avoiding excessive use of the air conditioning system will also help motorists stave off dehydration, as it dries out the environment.