Abstract

*Andrew P. Smith PhD

ABSTRACT

Background: Results from laboratory studies show that ingestion of caffeine improves cognitive functions that are important in driving. Studies using driving simulators also show that caffeine is beneficial, especially in fatigued drivers. However, there is little literature on caffeine and road traffic accidents (RTAs), and the present study aimed to provide information on this topic. Methods: A secondary analysis of epidemiological data is reported in this paper. A sample of 8696 UK adults (mean age: 44.8 years; 60.8% being in paid employment; 57.4 % female; 24.6% single, 62.3% married or cohabiting, and 13.1% divorced or widowed) completed the survey, which included questions on caffeine consumption, RTAs in the last 12months, and possible demographic and psychosocial confounders. Results: 3.3% of the non-consumers of caffeine and 1.9% of the caffeine consumers reported RTAs. Logistic regressions showed that the effect of caffeine remained significant when demographic and psychosocial variables were included in the model. Older drivers were less likely to have an RTA, and those with poor health, high levels of stress and high risk takers were more likely to report an RTA. Conclusion: These results show that caffeine consumption was associated with a reduced risk of an RTA. The study also demonstrated associations with established risk factors which gives one more confidence in this initial study.