Most drivers logically assume that those in control of semi-trucks are competent professionals. After all, those operating commercial trucks have to have commercial driver’s licenses. They have to undergo specialized training and are subject to stricter traffic regulations then those operating passenger vehicles.
They also have countless hours of experience on the road. While commercial drivers are often very proficient, they are also under significant stress. Their employers make many demands on them, some of which may compromise their decision-making and job performance.
How can work stress influence the risk of a crash with a commercial truck?
Drivers may bend the rules to arrive on time
Many of the regulations that apply to commercial vehicles can increase transport time. Hours of Service rules theoretically force drivers to end their shifts even if they haven’t arrived at a destination. Factors including heavy traffic and inclement weather might leave a driver running behind schedule. At that point, the professional operating a commercial truck might decide to speed, drive on roads not rated for heavy commercial vehicles or continue driving while they are overly fatigued. They might rely on caffeine to keep them alert, which isn’t always successful. Exhaustion, negative reactions to caffeine and excess speed could all negatively affect a driver’s performance and increase their chances of causing a collision.
Stress can lead to medical issues
Stress negatively affects the human brain and heart. Individuals dealing with high levels of occupational stress are at increased risk of cardiac events and other major medical issues. In some cases, a driver who has been on the road for too long and who relies on caffeine to continue performing could have a disabling medical emergency while on the road. According to federal collision data, roughly 12% of commercial vehicle crashes occur due to driver non-performance or the inability to control the vehicle. The driver falls asleep or experiences a medical emergency that renders them incapable of safely driving.
Unfortunately, job stress is unlikely to change. The constant demand for domestic ground transportation means that there are always loads headed somewhere, and commercial drivers are often on a tight deadline at work. When commercial drivers cause 18-wheeler crashes due to fatigue, distraction or medical emergencies, their employer’s policies may be to blame for an incident. Those affected by such crashes may have the option of pursuing a commercial insurance claim or possibly even a lawsuit.
