Truck Accidents – Physical and Psychological Factors

Truck Accidents – Physical and Psychological Factors

In many accidents, the driver is at fault. And not only because he made the wrong decision at the wrong time, but because they didn’t considered his shortcoming upfront. The psychological and physical conditions of the driver are as important as the truck.

Most companies, and even most drivers only care about the maintenance of the truck and disregard the well-being of the driver. This is an extremely counterproductive strategy, since a bad driver can cost thousands and thousands more than a broken truck. A simple truck accident implies not only repairing the truck, but losing the load and paying more insurance for the truck the next year.

At a glance these are:

Pains in the back and joints (legs, hands and arms) due to long hours of driving sometimes bumpy roads or using inadequate seat

Disturbances in the digestive tract because of irregular habits, improper dietary habits and stress

Lack of attentions during periods of drowsiness and psychic disorders caused by factors of mental and emotional stress

Smoking inside the cabin can cause explosion risk and contributes to the deterioration of health

Visual discomfort and eye problems because of inadequate illumination and eyestrain (especially when driving in the dark or in areas long distance)

Development of lumbago due to inadequate vehicle suspension, uncomfortable seat, etc

Psychological discomfort as a result of permanent control by cell phone or computer

Exposure to loud noise for long hours (> 80 dBA) or low frequency, with short-term adverse effects (headache) or long term (decreased hearing)

Exposure to ionizing radiation while transporting radioisotopes (frequently kept, for safety reasons in the driver’s cab)

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (sunlight) directly and reflected

Exposure to climatic factors potentially harmful to health, such as extreme cold or heat, or combinations of temperature, humidity and wind can cause frostbite or heat stroke

Exposure to sudden changes in temperature in and out of the car pool, which can cause colds and rheumatism

Vibrations affecting the whole body and possible effects on the functions of abdominal and chest and musculoskeletal system, causing fatigue and slow reactions

Understand and use safe techniques for lifting and handling heavy loads. Avoid inhaling exhaust gases to. Use sunglasses to drive, when needed. Protect hands with gloves or use a cream-resistant barrier when using chemicals. Install an ergonomically designed driver’s seat; stop driving regularly to rest and exercise, learning relaxation techniques to use when driving for long periods. Avoid smoking while driving.