A DEVICE has been launched that aims to combat the risks of driver fatigue. Newly-formed technology company Pernix says its new system ASTiD (Advisory System for Tired Drivers), costing £500, addresses the problem using scientific research stretching back 10 years.

ASTiD continually assesses the factors known to contribute to, or to be indicative of, driver tiredness and produces visual and audible alarms when necessary. One version provides a 'traffic light' unit, with green, amber and red lights illuminating to indicate when a break should be taken. Audio alerts are also given, advising the driver to stop for a minimum 15-minute rest break.

A higher-level system takes into account time of day, length and type of driving and vehicle movement, as tired drivers can make exaggerated corrective movements. The company says the only driver input required is the amount of sleep prior to starting the journey.

Pernix business development director Ian Thomas said: 'Driver fatigue is a major and growing problem, particularly affecting commercial vehicles and motorists travelling on business.'