There are various health problems that many truck drivers are at risk of due to the nature of their employment.
STAYING ACTIVE WHILE ON THE ROAD
drivers should be sure to walk and stretch and move their body when waiting to load or unload. many drivers will make frequent stops to purchase food, but this is not recommended. because of the unhealthy nature of almost all fast food chains, it’s recommended to prepare meals in advance when making a long drive. by bringing substantial meals along the way, drivers can avoid the slippery slope of fast food purchases (and it saves time, too).
AVOID STRAINING YOUR BODY
there are many products on the market which can help to improve posture and can assist in avoiding strain on your neck and back. respectively, drivers are encouraged to lift only what they know is safe. with all kinds of loading, the golden rule of “lift with your legs, not your back” always holds true. as mentioned above, performing good, regular stretching is a great way to keep your body from getting stiff on the job.
PREVENTING DEPRESSION AND ENSURING RESTFUL SLEEP
another unfortunate illness faced by many truck drivers is depression, caused by isolation on the job. in terms of preventing this, drivers are encouraged to spend the time they do have at home with friends and family, as socializing is a key factor in having good mental health.
Also, with the reduction in number of truck stops, drivers can have trouble finding a safe and secure place to sleep and are occasionally forced to sleep on the side of the interstate. in these conditions, sleep may be difficult to come by as drivers do not feel safe and secure with vehicles constantly driving by at 70+ mph. this restless sleep can leave drivers feeling fatigued, resulting in a high number of trucker accidents. in fact, around ⅓ of accidents caused by truckers are due to dozing at the wheel. this number could be significantly reduced if more frequent rest stops were established so that truckers can get the restful sleep that they need.
