Any job that requires a lot of travel and demands that you spend a lot of time behind the wheel is definitely not an easy one. And that is exactly the type of job truck drivers do every day. The trucking industry has been witnessing a huge expansion in the last several years and the role truck drivers play has become extremely important for the US economy.
However, it’s a job that comes with a lot of responsibility and risks as well. It is a physically demanding and high-risk job that requires careful attention to safety. The nature of the job leaves the truck driver susceptible to various injuries.
These can range from minor sprains to severe accidents, often leading to prolonged recovery periods and lost income. However, many injuries are preventable with the right precautions and safety measures.
There are several things truck drivers can do for their health and we’ve listed some of them below so make sure to read through and apply some of these tips the next time you’re on a driving mission.
Understanding the risks of truck driving
As said, there are many risks that come with driving. The mere fact that you spend so much time behind the wheel is risky enough, especially considering the fact that more than 5,000 truck drivers were involved in fatal crashes back in 2022.
Unfortunately, since then the number has even increased across certain US regions that have been going through a period of urbanization such as Indiana for instance.
Apart from the risks of severe collisions and crashes, truck drivers face other potential issues as well. Common injuries include:
● Muscle strains and sprains from repetitive movements
● Back and neck pain due to long hours of driving.
● Accidents caused by fatigue or poor weather conditions.
● Health issues such as obesity or poor sleeping schedule, caused by the sedentary nature of the job.
Essential safety tips for truck drivers
Truck drivers can do many things for their health, even more when supported by their employer. Trucking companies also play a big role in the truck drivers’ well being and need to ensure their employees dispose of all the resources they might need.
Prioritize rest and manage fatigue
It’s important to take regular breaks when driving long shifts. A break of 30 minutes is the minimum you need to take after 8 hours of continuous driving. If you’re facing tight deadlines and have no room to take breaks, then this is something you definitely need to communicate with the trucking company.
Otherwise, you risk endangering your life and the lives of others. Should you suffer an accident due to the inability to take a break, that’s the moment when you need to get in touch with a truck accident attorney.
They often deal with similar cases where the trucking company sets tight deadlines and doesn’t leave much time for breaks. That makes them indirectly responsible for your accident.
Wear safety gear
Appropriate safety gear can make a huge difference in preventing injuries. The appropriate gear can also help minimize the injuries in case of an accident if they happen. The most important equipment you need to have is high-visibility clothes such as a fluorescent vest that makes sure other drivers can see you at night, especially if you have to leave your truck.
Additionally, make sure to wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet from heavy objects. This is extremely important when carrying cargo. Also, to improve your grip when handling the goods also make sure to carry non-slip gloves.
Regularly maintain your truck
Vehicle maintenance is the best thing you can do to protect yourself from accidents and injuries. You need to regularly check your vehicle and make sure everything is in order. Regular inspections can help you identify potential issues before they become major problems.
The most important things to check are tires as a bad or deflated tire can easily cause accidents and it’s a problem often overlooked until it’s too late. Also, your brakes are another important part of vehicle maintenance and you need to make sure they function properly.
Finally, also make sure to check your turn signals as well as other lights as well that help maintain visibility on the road.
Stay in good physical shape
Physical fitness plays a crucial role in injury prevention, especially with such a job that requires you to sit for such long hours. Truck drivers who maintain a healthy weight and stay active are less likely to suffer from strain injuries.
Stretch regularly, even during long trips, to keep your muscles flexible. Consider exercises like walking, stretching, or light strength training during breaks to stay in shape.
Stay focused and avoid distractions
Distracted driving is a leading cause of all accidents, not just truck accidents. Many drivers daily cause accidents due to the fact that they don’t pay attention to the road and are distracted by their multimedia devices.
While on the road, eliminate any distractions that can have detrimental consequences. Avoid texting or chatting on the phone when driving and pull over if you need a meal break instead of eating while driving.
Also, make sure to keep your cabin clean and organized so you can easily find and reach things when driving.
The final word
As you can see, truck driving is definitely not as easy as it might seem on the outside. Safety should always be a top priority for truck drivers, who face numerous risks daily. By following these tips we provided, you can minimize the chances of work-related injuries and ensure a long, successful career.
Proper and regular rest, the use of safety gear, and regular vehicle maintenance are all essential practices that contribute to your well-being. It’s also necessary to address any potential risks and hazards with the trucking company and bring them to the attention of the employer.
That way, you’re already on a good path towards avoiding accidents and work-related injuries.
