Private hire driver tips: Driving during Ramadan

Ramadan is a meaningful time for reflection, devotion, and fasting for Muslims worldwide. At Otto Car, we know many of our private hire drivers will be practicing this while still working hard on the roads.

Fasting from dawn to dusk can affect energy levels, concentration, reaction times, and hydration. As a professional driver, staying alert and focused is essential not only for your own wellbeing, but for the safety of your passengers and everyone on the road.

Here are some easy tips to help you take care to keep yourself and passengers safe.

• Listen to your body and know your limits
• Prioritise rest to stay alert behind the wheel
• Adjust your driving style
• Hydrate and refuel properly before breaking fast
• Plan your routes and driving hours wisely

Listen to your body and know your limits

Fasting can sometimes lead to:

• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Headaches
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Slower reaction times
• Difficulty concentrating

If you notice any of these signs while driving, do not ignore them. Even a momentary lapse in concentration can increase the risk of accidents.

If you feel unwell or overly tired:

• Safely pull over when possible
• Take a short rest
• Consider ending your shift early

Get more tips on how to look after your wellbeing as a private hire driver - no fare is worth compromising your safety. 

Prioritise rest to stay alert behind the wheel

Sleep patterns often change during Ramadan. Reduced or disrupted sleep can significantly impact the way you drive for a number of reasons:

• Decision-making
• Hazard perception
• Braking reaction times

To reduce risk:

• Schedule short naps between shifts if possible
• Avoid long consecutive driving hours
• Try to maintain consistent sleep blocks

A well-rested driver is a safer driver.

Adjust your driving style

Even if you feel fine, your body may still be operating at lower energy levels.

Make small adjustments to improve safety:

• Increase your following distance
• Reduce speed slightly where appropriate
• Avoid harsh braking or sudden manoeuvres
• Be extra cautious at junctions and roundabouts

Our Driver Development Team are here to support you

True peace of mind starts with knowing you’re protected. When you drive with Otto Car, you also get the opportunity to drive with confidence knowing there are a team of qualified driving experts on hand to support you as and when you need it.

Be extra cautious before Iftar

The period just before Iftar can be one of the highest-risk times on the road. Drivers may be:

• Rushing home
• Feeling dehydrated or irritable
• Less patient in traffic

If possible:

• Avoid peak pre-Iftar traffic
• Plan shorter trips close to sunset
• Allow extra time for journeys

Planning ahead reduces pressure - and pressure leads to safer decisions.

Hydrate and refuel properly after breaking fast

Good nutrition and hydration will help restore energy and improve alertness for evening driving. So, after Iftar, you should try to:

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid excessive caffeine
• Choose balanced meals instead of very heavy foods.

If you plan to work after Iftar, give your body a little time to digest before getting back behind the wheel.

Take regular breaks throughout your shift

Even short breaks can:

• Reduce fatigue
• Improve concentration
• Lower stress levels

Use safe, well-lit locations when stopping, and stretch your legs to improve circulation.

Professional driving requires looking after your passengers, other drivers and pedestrians, and your own wellbeing.

A message from our Community Manager, Mohamed Salah:

“At Otto Car, we appreciate the hard work of our private hire drivers and want to make sure you have everything you need to stay safe and well. We hope these tips help you through the holy month while keeping your wellbeing a priority.

Wishing you a blessed and peaceful Ramadan filled with divine blessings and happiness.”

Your safety matters - on every journey

At Otto Car, we’re proud to support a diverse community of private hire drivers. 

Whether you're observing Ramadan or not, road safety remains our shared responsibility and our main mission here at Otto Car: 'Bringing our loved ones home safely, day after day'.

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