Truck drivers often have to work non-standard hours, getting up early, staying up late or even driving all night long. They do have to follow regulations about sleep and breaks, though, which may mean they wind up having to sleep during the day to catch up on their rest.
This can be hard to do, but it is crucial to eliminate the risk of dangerous drowsy driving. Here are a few tips from the National Sleep Foundation that may help:
- Make sure family members know your schedule. It’s hard to get to sleep, and it’s nearly impossible to get back to sleep if someone wakes you up.
- Invest in blackout shades. Traditional blinds just do not get the room dark enough, but special blinds can make it as dark as night even at noon.
- Do not drink too much caffeine. You may feel like you need it during that long drive, but drinking it too close to the end of the shift can keep you awake even when your body is physically exhausted. If you do drink it, pay close attention to when you have it.
- Do not use a nightcap. Having a drink may help put you to sleep, but it can also disrupt your sleep cycle and make you feel more tired when you wake up. Falling asleep naturally is far more restful.
- Try to create a schedule so that you can make it a habit. Training your body takes time, but it can help.
No one should underestimate the danger of drowsy driving. When it leads to accidents, those who get injured may have a right to financial compensation for their losses. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident with a drowsy driver, an experienced attorney can help protect your rights when dealing with the insurance companies.
