Trucking may seem like an easy job with few risks, but it is possible to get injured on the job. Sitting in one position for long periods of time can be a health hazard if you don’t take precautions. Here are three things truckers can do to reduce their injury risk while driving.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

When you spend most of your day sitting, it’s important to wear clothes that don’t restrict your blood flow, as this restriction can lead to problems with your body’s blood circulation. As much as possible, wear loose-fitting clothing and footwear to prevent circulation issues.

Many people like to wear jeans while driving, but jeans are not always the best choice for a day of trucking. Some jeans are made with a very stiff material that digs into your body while sitting, which constricts your blood flow. Cargo pants and overalls may be a better choice that balances truck driver health and comfort with workplace appropriateness.

Exercise Often

Another essential part of truck driver injury prevention is to get regular exercise, especially if you spend all day sitting. Even running or walking a few laps on the sidewalk around a truck stop can be beneficial. If you’re able to, you might consider bringing portable exercise equipment with you, such as:

• Dumbbells
• Yoga mat
• Jump rope
• Resistance bands
• Exercise ball and pump

If you can find a few fellow drivers to play a group game, it might also be worth keeping a frisbee, soccer ball, or basketball in your truck.

Upgrade the Driver’s Seat

Sitting in a chair with poor ergonomics can do real, long-term damage to your body if you’re not careful. When you’re sitting in a quality chair, you should be able to look ahead and see out the front windshield without needing to tilt your head. You should also be able to align your spine with the back of the chair and headrest to avoid trucking injuries.

If you suspect your chair is worn out or has poor performance, consider replacing it with an ergonomically correct semi-truck driver seat. You can shop for top-quality replacement seats on GRA-MAG’s online storefront. We provide state-of-the-art aftermarket driver seats that keep you safe and comfortable while you’re on the road.