DRIVERS are being warned of the dangers of falling asleep at the wheel and encouraged to take regular breaks on their journeys.

A new £550,000 broadcast campaign, part of the "Think!" campaign from the Department of Transport, features three radio adverts highlighting the dangers of driving when tired and will be broadcast throughout August.

Government research shows that up to 20 per cent of motorway accidents are caused when drivers fall asleep at the wheel. The radio adverts will coincide with the reshowing of hard-hitting television adverts.

Road Safety Minister David Jamieson, said: "As millions set off on their summer holidays, it is important that drivers are aware of the risks of driving when tired.

"This campaign reminds drivers to take regular breaks on long journeys -- to ensure summer holidays don't end before they have even started."