Truck drivers operate within an ecosystem where several factors can converge to increase the likelihood of accidents and injury. Among the most prevalent are fatigue and hour-of-service (HOS) violations, distracted driving, and others. To ensure you’re ready for the road, we’ll break down the three most common causes of truck driver injury, and how you can avoid them.

Driver Fatigue

Long-established as a bane to road safety, driver fatigue is often the result of demanding schedules and irregular sleep patterns. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cites fatigue as one of the key contributors in truck accidents. HOS regulations exist to mitigate this risk, yet the pressure to meet deadlines can lead drivers to skirt these rules, ultimately compromising their safety and that of others on the road.

Fatigue can also take a physical toll on truckers with low-quality seats. Drivers need supportive seats for long hauls to retain their focus and comfort through the whole journey. For instance, the SteadyRide seats are specifically designed to reduce fatigue so drivers can avoid developing injuries in their neck, back, and beyond.

Distracted Driving

A comfortable cabin is critical to driver safety, but it’s not the only factor to consider. According to data from the Institute for Safer Trucking, distracted truck drivers were involved in more than 200 fatal accidents in 2020.

The advent of mobile technology has significantly exacerbated the risk of driver distraction. Truck drivers who are frequently away from their families may feel the temptation to catch up on communications while on the road and thus face a unique challenge in this regard.

From fumbling with GPS devices to glancing at smartphones, any moment taken away from full attention to the road is a moment of heightened risk. Education, strict policies, and the role of technology in reducing distractions are key in addressing this issue.

Driving Under the Influence

The aforementioned FMCSA study specifies another key factor behind trucking accidents—driving under the influence. Specific causes include drinking, prescription drug use, and over-the-counter drug use.

For truck drivers, the consumption of any substance that impairs cognitive and motor functions significantly heightens the danger—not only to themselves but to all road users. Alcohol and drugs can drastically reduce a driver’s reaction time and impair judgment. Never forget that judgment and reaction times are critical attributes for drivers, especially truck drivers, to exhibit at all times. Staying sober and focused behind the wheel ensures you can stay focused and responsible.

As you can see, the common causes of truck driver injuries are substantial—but most importantly, avoidable. Create a safer work environment within your truck cabin by using the information above to avoid dangerous mistakes on the road.