Listen: fresh warning to millions over the safe caffeine limit whilst driving

A major new study has exposed the hidden scale of caffeine dependency behind the wheel. Far from keeping motorists alert, over-consumption is fuelling distraction, anxiety and impaired judgement, with one in four drivers (25%) admitting they have suffered the effects of “caffeine toxicity” while driving.

The problem is most severe among 17 to 24 year-olds. Almost half (48%) say caffeine has left them jittery, anxious or distracted while driving, and one in six (16%) say this happens often.

Caffeine dependency is now embedded in driving culture. Three in five motorists (58%) admit they consume caffeine specifically to help them drive. But the effect is often the opposite, with one in ten (8%) saying it leaves them jittery or distracted often.

The research, carried out by digital car finance company Carmoola, highlights how little it takes to push drivers into danger. Medical experts warn the safe limit is around 400mg of caffeine per day. Beyond this, benefits reverse and symptoms of toxicity set in.

Aston spoke to GP Dr Tim Mercer and James Gibson from Road Safety GB.

Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash