Fatigue and the criminal law.
Fatigue is an increasingly recognised risk factor for transportation accidents. In light of this, there is the question of whether driving whilst fatigued should be a criminal offence. This paper discusses the current legal position, including the problems of voluntary conduct and self awareness. Three models for reform are proposed. The manner in which scientific research can inform legal consideration and future directions for research are discussed.
Jones
Christopher B
CB
Centre for Sleep Research, University of South Australia, Level 5, Basil Hetzel Building, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, S.A. 5011, South Australia, Australia.
Dorrian
Jillian
J
Rajaratnam
Shanthakumar M W
SM
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D001334:Automobile Driving / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000523:psychology; D003416:Criminal Law / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D003617:Dangerous Behavior; D005221:Fatigue; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012449:Safety / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D012892:Sleep Deprivation / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology