Sleep Apnea And Truck Accidents 

Sleep apnea is a serious condition, and truck drivers who do not consider proper treatment put themselves, as well as other people on the road, at risk of getting injured and losing their lives in a catastrophic accident. According to various studies, sleep apnea is linked with an increase in motor vehicle accidents. Thus, the statistics make it obvious that the condition is dangerous. 

If you have been injured in a truck accident where the truck driver was suffering from sleep apnea, you may be worried about your rights. You may think that if the driver suffered from the condition, the accident was not their fault. But that is not so. Visit this website and speak to an attorney to understand your case and explore your options. 

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition where a person experiences stopped breathing for a few seconds throughout the night while sleeping, and this happens over and over. A person suffering from sleep apnea experiences at least 10 seconds of stopped breathing. It is a common sleeping disorder in the United States, and anyone can get it. However, the condition is seen more in overweight men with thicker necks and narrowed airways. 

Since the job of a truck driver is sedentary, it is not surprising that many drivers are overweight in the industry. Other factors that increase the risk of getting sleep apnea include drinking alcohol and smoking. 

How does sleep apnea cause truck accidents?

Sleep apnea can increase the risk of drowsy driving, increasing the risks of an accident. Sleepy drivers have been in the accident news for a long time. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 15 percent of truck accidents in the United States happen because the drivers are tired and sleepy. 

The best way to avoid accidents related to sleep apnea is to get medically treated for the condition. Other tips that can help truck drivers include the following: 

• Regardless of your work schedule, try to get at least eight hours of sleep before heading out on the road again. 
• Control your blood sugar levels with a healthy diet.
• Take breaks and naps in between your work.
• Check whether you take any medications that make you feel dizzy and consult your doctor about it. 

You must be devastated if you were injured or your loved one was killed in a truck accident. Fortunately, there are legal remedies for victims. Speak to an attorney to know your options.