Each year, commercial truck accidents kill over 5,000 peoplE
The Truth About Truck Drivers and Sleep-Deprivation
- The Federal Government regulates the amount of hours a truck driver can drive and be on duty for safety concerns.
- See the "Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration" guidelines for more information on Hours of Service regulations.
- Many truck drivers have experienced "microsleep." This is when your eyes are open and your hands are on the wheel but your brain simply shuts off.
- Truck driver fatigue is a contributing factor in 20% - 40% of heavy truck crashes, (National Transportation Safety Board).
Why Nap?
- According to the National Sleep Foundation, a 20-30min nap is found to be most effective.
- A 20-30min nap can improve alertness and reduce fatigue.
- A nap also increases performance including: quicker reaction time, better memory, less confusion, and fewer accidents and mistakes. (Mayo Clinic).
- Taking a nap during an a long shift on the road will significantly reduce the dangers and risks of a fatigue/sleep-deprived related accident