Most people can agree that professional drivers, including truck drivers, bus drivers and passenger vehicle drivers, are essential in helping to ensure that goods and people reach their destinations efficiently. However, it’s easy to overlook that the nature of their work exposes them to several health risks and injuries.
Drivers spend long hours behind the wheel, endure irregular sleep patterns and deal with the constant stress of traffic conditions. All these and so much more create unique challenges that can result in devastating injuries.
Musculoskeletal injuries
Since the task of driving requires sitting for prolonged periods, drivers can agree that it takes a toll on their bodies. Not being able to move various muscle groups and joints as frequently as they should can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. These are conditions that affect drivers’ bones, joints, muscles and connective tissues, often resulting in:
- Back pain
- Neck stiffness
- Shoulder strain
- Knee problems
These injuries can be exacerbated by:
- Poor posture
- Limited movement
- Vibrations from the vehicle
Truck drivers who load or unload cargo are especially prone to lower back injuries due to improper lifting techniques.
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
Driving as a profession comes with repetitive tasks like gripping the steering wheel or using pedals for extended periods. While doing such tasks over and over again might not seem like a big deal, after a while, drivers may develop repetitive strain injuries. Drivers who have been in the profession for years have likely developed:
- Wrist pain
- Shoulder tension
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Professional drivers may also develop leg pain from repetitive braking and acceleration.
Fatigue-related injuries
Individuals who only drive for leisure may not realize how exhausting driving can be for professional drivers who spend hours behind the wheel. To avoid getting involved in an accident, drivers have to:
- Maintain razor focus
- Quickly react to sudden changes in traffic
- Observe traffic rules
- De-escalate negative interactions with other road users
Furthermore, long-haul truckers and bus drivers with demanding schedules experience driver fatigue because they sometimes have to push themselves to drive longer. Fatigued driving can:
- Impair their reaction times
- Compromise their judgment
- Increasing their risk of accidents
Fatigue may also contribute to chronic physical problems, as sleep deprivation affects muscle recovery and cognitive function.
Professional drivers might not be aware that they can be compensated for injuries sustained in the line of duty. The right legal team can help clarify their situation and assist with exploring all available legal avenues for fair compensation.