Nebraska's Truck Crash Lawyer

The role that health plays in preventing truck accidents

On Behalf of | Oct 21, 2020 | Trucking Safety

Because truckers work long hours, maintaining their health may seem unlikely and difficult to do. Poor health can result in reduced energy and increased fatigue which may contribute to truck accidents in Nebraska.

Truckers who prioritize their health and take preventative measures to take good care of themselves despite their job may lessen their risks and stay safer on the road.

Poor health and fatigue

In a study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, researchers found a strong correlation between poor health and fatigue. Truckers who worked excessively and lacked proper nutrition suffered from sleep problems. Difficulty sleeping may result in an increase of the following risks:

  • Slow reaction time
  • Mood swings
  • Poor judgment
  • Memory lapses
  • Compromised awareness

Health on the road

Staying healthy on the road is something all truckers can do. They may consider creating a health plan for themselves complete with goals. They could share these goals with family and friends for accountability. Having a visual of their health initiatives may encourage them to stick with their effort to stay healthy and active.

According to Smart Trucking, truck drivers benefit from drinking plenty of water and eating light. They should refrain from eating too much junk food. If they use stimulants like coffee, they should keep their intake to a minimum to avoid dehydration and a false energy boost. Truckers can plan their trips ahead of time and make sure they bring their nutritional supplements. They should also stay active and move around whenever they have the chance. When they do have time to rest, they should prioritize sleeping and make sure they have enough time for a restful night of sleep.

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