Do the Psychological Impacts of Truck Driving Put Drivers in Danger?

MARSHALL, Texas. We often hear about the dangers of distracted driving, the risks of drinking and drug use while driving, and the ways in which truck drivers may break the rules to work extra hours or make a few extra dollars. What we don’t often see are the realities of life on the road, the psychological effects of loneliness, and the challenges of working for the trucking industry, where some workers say demands are increasing while pay is decreasing.

According to the New York Times, some truckers are paid by the mile or are considered independent contractors. Workers may not be paid for the time they spend waiting to load and unload the trucks. They may owe truck companies leases on their trucks, which can result in them owing money even after driving thousands of miles. The financial pressures of working as a truck driver can add stress to the job. Drivers who are stressed might be more likely to cut corners, avoid necessary repairs, and may even drive longer hours than they should.

According to the Times, 1.7 million people work as long-haul truck drivers. Yet, the Times reports that the work is often underpaid, unhealthy, and turnover can be high—as much as 80 percent a year in some parts of the industry. According to one truck driver interviewed by the Times, many truck drivers don’t like the 14-hour rule because it eats into their pay. When drivers are paid by the mile, a three-hour traffic jam can mean less money in your pay check.

Truck driving can have a major impact on driver’s personal relationships. Some drivers get divorced and married several times. Other drivers miss important events at home like birthdays and anniversaries. Driving is a long and lonely job and many drivers will go long hours without talking to another person.

Loneliness changes the way the brain works. Loneliness can make a person hypervigilant, which can make them more aware of threats. Yet, this awareness may not make a person a better driver. The hypervigilance applies to social situations. According to the New York Times, loneliness can disrupt a person’s sleep patterns and can lead to sooner cognitive issues among older people. Truck drivers rely on their attention and their ability to get a good night’s rest to be able to do their jobs. If loneliness can interact with these skills, drivers who are socially isolated could be putting their health at risk, and also their safety in danger. Drivers who are not well-rested or alert can be more likely to get into car accidents.

The trucking industry can do more to keep drivers healthy. Promoting social interaction among drivers, planning routes so that drivers can be home more often or interact with co-workers, or provide support for lonely drivers can be helpful.

The Cooper Law Firm is closely watching how different factors affect truck drivers’ well-being and safety. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, the Cooper Law Firm are truck accident lawyers in Marshall, Texas who may be able to help you seek damages for your lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical expenses.

Cooper Law Firm
501 N Third St,
Longview, TX 75601
Telephone: (903) 297-0037