How Can a Trucker’s Sleep Apnea Lead to a Truck Accident?

December 4, 2019

At one time or another, most people have felt like they could fall asleep at any moment. When you are in safe surroundings, this is nothing a good night’s rest cannot fix. However, when a person is responsible for controlling a massive piece of machinery, such as a tractor-trailer, falling asleep on the spot is a big problem. Truck accidents arising from sleep apnea put the trucker in immediate danger, and it puts the lives of other motorists in danger as well.

What is sleep apnea?

It is a condition in which a person stops and starts breathing repeatedly while they are sleeping. It is dangerous to truckers and other motorists because of the fatigue sleep conditions cause. Deep exhaustion often results in falling asleep as well as reducing a driver’s ability to remain alert behind the wheel. As you might expect, this can lead to truck accidents.

Can truckers with sleep apnea continue to drive?

Yes, they can. At this time, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not require testing for sleep apnea. However, if truckers receive a diagnosis, they must comply with the latest treatments for the condition. Those who seek treatment and remain consistent with their doctor’s orders typically feel more alert, which can significantly reduce the volume of truck accidents in Pennsylvania and elsewhere.

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