Skip to Content
An Award-Winning Practice with Results to Back It Up
(615) 697-6503
Witherington Injury Law Witherington Injury Law
Top

4 Sleep Disorders Truckers Suffer From

4 Common Sleep Disorders Truck Drivers Suffer From

What Causes Commercial Driving Accidents?

Accidents involving a commercial vehicle are incredibly devastating. Unfortunately,one of the common ways they are caused is by drowsy driving dueto the grueling schedule truck drivers must complete throughout the hours of the night. In fact, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT), over a third of drivers have Sleep Apnea, and most of them have no clue. Keep reading to learn the four common sleep conditions many truck drivers face that could put themselves and other drivers in danger:

What Sleep Disorders Are Seen Most Often?

  • Shift Work Syndrome

  • This condition affects your circadian rhythm cycle. It causes at least 1-4 hours of sleep loss per night on average.

  • Sleep Deprivation

  • Sleep deprivation is the severe lack of proper sleep, causing extreme drowsiness.

  • Insomnia

  • Insomnia is when you have a tough time falling and remaining asleep. You toss and turn, and it makes the hours you are awake brutal.

  • Sleep Apnea

This is one of the most dangerous sleep disorders drivers face, as your breathing frequently stops and starts in the middle of your rest. When left untreated, it can cause high blood pressure and other heart issues.

Changes in DOT Regulations

Moving forward, the DOT has started a screening process for different types of people operating large vehicles, such as truck drivers, pilots, and sea captains. This screening includes deciphering whether or not the driver has a sleep disorder of any kind. In order to remain certified, the sleep disorder is required to be treated appropriately.

What to Do When You’re Affected

These untreated disorders can cause worsening brain functions and poor health for truck drivers, which causes an increase in accidents. If you have fallen victim to an accident with a commercial vehicle, call our office immediately. The team at Witherington Injury Law is more than qualified to help you have the best shot at getting the financial compensation you deserve.

Call our office at (615) 697-6503 to schedule a free consultation. Our team will do everything in our power to see to it that you get the justice you deserve.