Driver fatigue is a common travel companion for truckers. The condition usually sets in due to nurturing work conditions, like long hours on the road, tight deadlines to meet, and poor sleep quality. However, personal aspects (like health conditions) can play a role as well.
The effects of drowsiness while driving can vary from milder symptoms as delayed perception time to more severe ones like microsleep. Nevertheless, the condition creates a higher risk of traffic accidents. The responsibility to minimize driver fatigue is shared between the driver and the employer.
What Is Driver Fatigue?
Driving fatigue refers to being behind the wheel while under a general condition of tiredness or sleepiness. There can be several causes that can lead to fatigue while driving, with potentially life-threatening results. In many cases, drowsiness while driving can be prevented.
The Main Causes of Driver Fatigue
While drowsiness is a common problem for all drivers, it is of particular concern to truckers. Beyond the personal aspects that may trigger sleepiness, they are met with challenging work conditions that may hinder their ability to get quality sleep and rest while on a mission.
The main causes of driver fatigue include:
- Long shifts
- Night shits
- Shift work
- Stress and anxiety
- Inability to get quality sleep
- Medical conditions
- Certain medications
The Effects of Fatigue on Driving
Fatigue can have a similar effect on driving behavior as alcohol. It can lead to delayed perception and reaction time, increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Some of the more common effects of drowsy driving include:
- Delayed perception
- Delayed reaction time
- Nodding off
- Decision making
- Tunnel vision
- Microsleep
This tableau of effects can, in turn, increase the risk of the driver becoming involved in a traffic accident. A moment’s inattention can lead to a slower perception of and reaction time to an oncoming danger or losing control of the truck.
Being in a traffic accident is a traumatic enough event in itself. However, for truck drivers, there is the added pressure of driving being their livelihood. Therefore, if an accident does occur, consider contacting a truck accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale. A legal expert can help you navigate through proceedings and protect your livelihood.
Preventive Measures
With concern to drowsy driving by truckers, it is crucial to highlight that responsibility for preventive measures is shared between the driver and the trucking company. Since the onset of fatigue can be favored by work conditions, the employer has the responsibility to intervene and create a more favorable setting.
One of the key elements to preventing drowsiness is to ensure you get plenty of quality sleep. This might be particularly challenging for truckers due to their work conditions. However, it is important to invest time in improving this aspect.
Try to look for a quiet and shaded place where you can pull over and take a nap. If you prefer silence, consider using earplugs. Still, consider checking out some audio recordings of relaxing sounds to see if they work for you. Driving a truck and protecting the load is a highly stressful activity, so it is crucial to find ways to unwind. Also, try to avoid caffeine before going to sleep.
Furthermore, try to take regular breaks. Use these intervals of rest wisely. Rest your arms, legs, and your eyes. Go for a short stroll in the vicinity of your truck or engage in an activity that brings you joy. You could also use this reprieve to reconnect with your family and friends.
Final Thoughts
Driver fatigue is a dangerous condition that can set in while on the road that can have potentially fatal consequences. Truck drivers are particularly exposed to this danger, and the risks can be even higher since the size and weight of the vehicle makes it more difficult to maneuver. However, tackling the issue is possible, and a joint approach is recommended between driver and trucking company.
