A new study from MoneySuperMarket has found that a caffeine crash while driving is more common than many realise, with nearly one in five motorists saying they have experienced one behind the wheel. As winter sets in and mornings become darker, many drivers increase their caffeine intake to stay alert, but this may unintentionally raise fatigue risks on the road.
A caffeine crash is the sudden drop in energy and concentration that follows heavy caffeine consumption. For drivers, this can mean reduced focus, slower reactions and a greater likelihood of errors on longer journeys.
Festive lattes and high-caffeine seasonal drinks
Two in five drivers reported that they drink more caffeine when seasonal drinks, such as festive lattes, hit the menu. Some popular choices pack a surprisingly high caffeine load, with a medium pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks containing around 185mg of caffeine. That is almost half of the recommended daily limit.
For trainers working with learners planning independent winter journeys, this is a useful moment to highlight how caffeine affects alertness throughout the day.
What the experts say
Pharmacist Deborah Grayson explains that caffeine works by blocking adenosine, which normally signals the brain to rest. Once the effect wears off, tiredness can return sharply. Symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, irritability and headaches can indicate a caffeine crash.
MoneySuperMarket’s car insurance expert Alicia Hempsted adds that, although caffeine is unrestricted, drivers should be aware of how much they consume, particularly before long trips. With some drinks offering three quarters of a day’s allowance, overconsumption can easily catch drivers out.
Practical advice for safer journeys
The Highway Code recommends taking breaks at least every two hours, drinking water and avoiding night-time driving where possible. These simple steps can help offset the impact of caffeine-related fatigue.
