SLEEPY motorists pose more danger for road users than drink-drivers, police have warned.

Durham Police traffic officers are keen to drive home the message that tiredness at the wheel can kill.

Sleepy drivers are said to be responsible for more road accidents than those who drink drive, with driver fatigue a contributory factor in one in four collisions on the county's motorways and trunk roads.

The force has launched a two-week campaign to coincide with the peak of the holiday season when more motorists drive long journeys.

Casualty reduction officer PC Dave Nixon said: "Sleepy drivers who ignore the danger signs that they are falling asleep are putting their own, and other lives at risk.

"Drivers are most likely to experience fatigue during unbroken journeys on motorways, or on straight, monotonous roads."

"We would urge drivers to get sufficient rest before setting out on a long drive and to plan rest breaks into their journey.

"If they feel tired they should pull over somewhere safe and take a short nap, have a walk in the fresh air, or, if possible, book into a hotel or motel to rest properly."

A joint operation involving the police, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and Autolink was launched yesterday.

Officers are distributing driver safety advice leaflets at motorway service areas where posters advertising the campaign are displayed.

VOSA staff are also on hand to offer advice to goods vehicle operators on drivers' hours restrictions.

Police warned that action will be taken against those not complying with the drivers' hours regulations.