It is common for truck drivers to get tired while on the road. However, extended tiredness leads to fatigue which endangers both the truck driver and other road users. 2021 statistics show that drowsy driving caused more than 100 thousand crashes.
The crashes resulted in 1,550 deaths and 71,000 injuries. These statistics show how serious issues of truck driver fatigue should be taken and avoided. Trucking companies can use different ways to prevent driver fatigue.
Allow napping
The number of truck accidents occurring due to fatigued drivers is on the rise. When a driver dozes off while on the road, they no longer have control of the vehicle. This is how most accidents due to fatigue happen. If you call your insurer immediately, there are questions they might ask, and you answer the wrong way. This might cause your claim to be reduced.
It is best to visit USAttorneys.com and speak to experienced accident lawyers first. The lawyers can call the insurance company on your behalf and provide the correct information. The process of filing court cases is often tedious to people who have not studied law. Lawyers understand the process, and they can represent you as you move on with your job.
When starting a journey, a truck driver can feel fresh and energized. After eight hours of driving, they may start feeling some level of tiredness. After another hour on the road, the tiredness may progress into fatigue. The driver may feel aches in the body, headache, or drowsiness.
The most dangerous level of fatigue is when the driver begins to feel drowsiness. At least 6% of road accidents are caused by drowsy drivers. To avoid dozing off while on the road, it is better to allow yourself between thirty to forty minutes of napping. After this, wash your face and proceed with your journey.
Provide plenty of drinking water
Water has more health benefits than soft drinks and other types of beverages. It keeps your body hydrated. If you take at least 8 cups of water daily, it will improve your overall health. It helps keep you awake while you drive. Carry several bottles of water so that you can keep drinking as you drive. If you get into an accident due to fatigue, inform truck accident lawyers to get legal advice.
Get company
Truck drivers who drive for long trips alone easily get fatigued. It makes a big difference having someone with you to talk to. Sometimes roads are full of challenges such as bad weather, traffic, and bad road condition. If you are all alone, these challenges can preoccupy your mind for many hours.
When you have someone accompanying you, some of these issues are easy to deal with. At some point, when you feel tired, the other person can help you drive for another three or four hours as you rest in the cabin. If you get involved in an accident, you can support each other and get qualified attorneys to help you.
Roll down the windows
Long trips are tiring with every mile that you add to your journey. Eventually, heat may build up in the cabin, which can trigger higher levels of fatigue. You need plenty of fresh air to flow in and out of the cabin. Roll down the windows for the rest of the journey to keep yourself awake.
Eat and sleep well
Eating well means having the right amount of protein, carbs, and vitamins in your meals. While on a long journey, many truck drivers make the mistake of bringing with them heavy snacks and plenty of soft drinks.
They only catalyze your fatigue within the first few hours of your journey. You should carry fresh fruits, proteins, and carbs to keep your body functioning well. When you get time to sleep, make sure you get at least eight hours of deep sleep.