How Commercial Truck Drivers Can Avoid Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of severe car and truck accidents. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 100,000 accidents across the country each year are caused by tired drivers.
Truck and commercial-vehicle drivers are particularly at risk of fatigue. Long work hours and unfamiliar routes can take their toll and lead to serious collisions. With a few tips and a responsible approach to driver fatigue, however, you can significantly reduce your chance of causing a wreck.
If you were in a crash and wish to bring a claim against a negligent driver, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. Our Omaha personal-injury lawyer can investigate your crash and determine if you may have valid grounds for a lawsuit.
Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule an appointment, and read for important suggestions on how to avoid fatigue as a CMV driver:
- Stay Healthy
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet can significantly reduce your levels of fatigue while behind the wheel. While it may be tempting to skip meals or snack while on the road to make up for lost time, this can lead to food cravings, inattention and chronic fatigue.
- Get Good, Consistent Sleep
Experts strongly recommend that professional drivers get enough sleep each night. This is important throughout the year – not just before a big trip. There is no specific number of hours of sleep that applies to all drivers, but you should only get behind the wheel if you feel refreshed and well rested.
The FMCSA also recommends that CMV drivers avoid operating their vehicles at times when their bodies may naturally feel tired. This is usually between midnight and 6 a.m., and in the early afternoon.
- Take a Nap
If you are already on the road and suddenly feel tired, pull over and take a nap. Your nap should be at least 10 minutes yet no longer than 45 minutes. Find somewhere safe to pull over for this nap, and allow yourself 15 minutes to wake up fully before commencing your trip.
- Be Aware of Medication
Some medication may cause you to feel drowsy. Avoid taking medication you are not familiar with before a journey. Even over-the-counter drugs can cause fatigue. According to the FMCSA, 17 percent of commercial vehicle drivers claim to have taken medication before a crash.
- Avoid Alertness Tricks
If you find yourself turning up the radio, smoking, opening the window, or consuming energy drinks and coffee to stay awake, pull over immediately. These are signs that your concentration is starting to wane, and alertness tricks will not resolve your fatigue.
If you were injured in a crash that a fatigued driver caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha personal-injury attorney will evaluate your claim and may be able to recover medical expenses and lost wages. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule an appointment.
