• 22
  • November
    2011

When thinking about the most common causes of serious truck accidents, it's easy to forget how health problems contribute to car and truck crashes. A new report by the New York Times uncovers the epidemic of unhealthy living habits that is causing concern for truck companies and truck insurance companies throughout the country.

As drivers travel thousands of miles each year, they often live very sedentary lives behind the wheel. Adding to that is the prevalence of the unhealthy food options on the road such as fast food, convenience food and truck stop diner food. Many truck drivers also consume a high number of calories in caffeinated beverages including energy drinks, sugary coffee and pop.

All of these health challenges have led to an epidemic of obesity and weight-related health problems. The Journal of the American Dietetic Association reported that 86 percent of the 3.2 million truck drivers are overweight or obese. While the federal government requires medical tests, many health problems are unreported.

Heart attacks, strokes and sleep disorders all increase the risk of a fatal truck accident. If you or someone you love has been catastrophically injured in a collision with a semi truck, it's critical to hire an experienced accident lawyer to investigate the cause of the collision.

Source: New York Times "A Hard Turn - Big Rig Drivers Focus on Getting Healthy," Abby Ellin, 11/21/2011