Could Improving Trucker Health Reduce Ohio Trucking Accidents?

November 15, 2012

Long days on the road, fast food and sleeping in the bunk of a big rig are all part of the lore of the American trucker. While many have a romantic view of this lifestyle, truck driving is a taxing profession. The health of drivers has become an important topic, because it has a serious affect on the number of crashes. In fact, federal regulations require all commercial drivers to pass a physical exam every two years.

Unfortunately, many of the elements of life as a truck driver take their toll on the health of commercial truck drivers and may be the underlying causes of truck accidents. Health concerns such as sleep apnea or diabetes may mean it is dangerous for the driver of a semi truck to share the road with other motorists.

Efforts to improve trucker health

Now, trucking associations, fleet companies and truck stops have undertaken several initiatives to improve the health of commercial drivers. These entities believe that better health improves road safety, since good health correlates with less fatigue and fewer chances of medical emergencies while behind the wheel.

The Healthy Trucking Association of America is dedicated to educating truckers and fleet managers about the importance of good health while on the road. It provides resources on common medical conditions and tips for preventing them. It also educates truckers on healthy food decisions and provides instruction on simple exercises that can help relieve strain on overused muscles and keep underused muscles active.

Truck stops and fleet companies are also working to improve the health of truck drivers. Some truck stops are providing gym equipment and offering healthier fare to truck drivers, like fresh fruit and vegetables. Fleet companies are developing weight-loss and other wellness programs to help improve the health and safety of their drivers.
Common truck driver health concerns

Due to the sedentary nature of truck driving, it can be difficult for commercial drivers to get enough exercise to stave off weight gain and its associated health risks. Common health conditions prevalent among truck drivers include sleep apnea, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Sleep apnea is a disorder that disrupts breathing during sleep, interrupts sleep patterns and denies oxygen to vital organs. Sleep apnea can cause depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and fatigue. Trucker fatigue can easily lead to a crash when it occurs while the driver is behind the wheel.

High blood pressure can also create complications for truck drivers. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the pressure of the blood pushing against the arterial walls becomes too high. Hypertension is the leading cause of heart attack and stroke, both of which are serious incidents that put truck drivers and other road users in danger if they occur while a driver is operating a truck.

Truck driver health is growing issue in the commercial driving industry. Some companies are starting wellness initiatives to help improve the health of their drivers, and an entire professional association is dedicated to the health of truckers. Even with the increasing outreach efforts, accidents will continue to occur due to truck driver fatigue and other conditions. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a commercial truck, please contact an experienced Ohio personal injury attorney.

Article provided by Gervelis Law Firm
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