Driving with fatigue is commonl, and can be both dangerous and deliberating. It can be dangerous not just for the truck driver, but also for the other vehicles on the road. With the increase of fatigue driving, many truck drivers do not understand the potential hazard of driving while being fatigued. Around 2 million people die annually, approximately 2.2% of total deaths worldwide, making it the 9th leading cause of death.
If you or your loved one has encountered a truck accident, contact Manhattan, KS Truck Accident Attorney to help you with legal procedures and claim for compensation. Here are some life-saving tips for preventing fatigued driving for truck drivers.
How to prevent fatigued driving for truck drivers
- Encourage open conversations
Encouraging open conversations might feel like simple advice, but unfortunately, the driver hesitates to say that he feels too tired to drive in a trucking company.The trucking companies should not assign work beyond their capacity to perform. They should get proper leaves for taking rest.
- Take rest whenever it is possible.
If you have an overnight duty to perform delivery for a long distance, take a rest in the afternoon to avoid sleeping at night while driving. You can experiment with your sleeping patterns to determine which one suits you the best. Studies found that even short naps can restore alertness, reduce mistakes, and enhance performance.
- Intake healthy foods.
Your big burger might be readily available and tastes delicious, but it can also be the reason behind your fatigue. Your food is fuel for your body, and whatever you put into it makes a big difference. Your body produces energy by processing the food, and it can not produce if you do not have enough nutrients in your food.
- Stick to a specific schedule
Most of the drivers in Manhattan do not have fixed or regular schedules to work. It is beneficial if you stick to consistent work shifts. Changing the routine can significantly affect the sleep schedule and remain well-rested. Every trucking company should take a proactive approach to manage the driver’s fatigue levels.
- Avoid taking caffeine or alcohol.
While caffeine is not the best diet choice, it can keep you awake while driving. Alcohol is depressant, and caffeine is a stimulant. When both are used simultaneously, it contributes to several health issues, including fatigue. There are pros and cons of intaking caffeine, which are as follows.
Pros:
- Keeps you awake
- Increases your attention
- Improve athletic skills
Cons:
- Can increase blood pressure
- Can cause headaches
- Interferes with sleep
