I SUPPORT in principle the campaign being voiced to change the law relating to driver fatigue, following the tragic event at Great Heck (February 10).

The problem of falling asleep while in charge of a motor vehicle is of far greater significance than most realise.

According to Department of Transport statistics, an estimated 300 people are killed every year because of drivers falling asleep at the wheel, compared to 400 who die as a result of drink driving.

Research carried out by Loughborough University revealed that driver sleepiness or fatigue was the main cause of ten per cent of all collisions, and on motorways this rose to 20 per cent.

A change in the law, however, would only go so far in dealing with the problem. The onset of fatigue on drivers is a gradual process because no one falls asleep instantly.

The public must be made more aware of the dangers of tiredness at the wheel, and the need to stop and rest. To support this, more areas should be provided on motorways and major trunk roads, to park.

In France, the dangers associated with fatigue are well publicised and, on the autoroutes in particular, facilities are provided every ten kilometres for rest and recuperation.

Eric W Smith,

The Hawthorns,

Welburn, York.

Updated: 10:04 Monday, February 16, 2004