Truck driver fatigue is a major safety concern that impacts truck drivers and the general public in Colorado. Fatigued truck drivers are at an increased risk of being involved in serious or fatal crashes. Addressing this human factor in the trucking industry requires a multifaceted approach.
Understanding Driver Fatigue
Fatigue impairs a driver’s abilities and performance in much the same way as alcohol impairment. Drowsy driving can lead to slowed reaction times, reduced alertness, vision impairment, and lapses in judgement and memory. Contributing factors to driver fatigue include:
- Disruption of regular sleep cycles – Truck drivers often drive at night and sleep during the day in their trucks. This can disrupt circadian rhythms and prevent restorative sleep.
- Long driving hours without adequate breaks – Federal regulations limit driving time to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty. However, some drivers may exceed limits or not take enough breaks.
- Undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders – Conditions like sleep apnea are more prevalent among truck drivers and can lead to daytime sleepiness.
- Inadequate truck cabin comfort and ergonomics – An uncomfortable cabin environment can make resting while off-duty difficult. Newer trucks have focused on improved comfort.
Regulations and Safety Initiatives in Colorado
To improve safety on Colorado roads, both government agencies and private trucking companies have implemented initiatives targeting driver fatigue.
- Hours of Service Regulations – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces limits on driving hours and mandatory break periods. Falsifying logbooks to exceed limits has led to increased electronic logging device mandates.
- Colorado Fatigue Management Program – The state developed a voluntary education and training program on managing fatigue risk and implementing fatigue countermeasures. Over 50 Colorado-based carriers have completed the program.
- Rest Area Improvements – The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) partners with businesses and organizations to sponsor rest area improvements, like parking additions and amenities installation. Well-maintained rest areas give drivers comfortable off-duty time.
- Carrier Fatigue Management Plans – Responsible carriers develop internal policies and programs to combat fatigue, such as screening for sleep disorders, adjusting delivery schedules, monitoring driving hours, and replacing older trucks.
The Role of Truck Drivers
While management has an obligation to prevent overly fatiguing schedules, drivers themselves also have a responsibility to avoid and mitigate fatigue. Safe truckers should:
- Recognize personal signs of drowsiness while driving and stop to rest when needed.
- Maintain regular sleep routines and habits even if different than a typical daytime schedule.
- Seek diagnosis and treatment for potential sleep disorders. Sleep apnea testing is available at medical clinics and many truck stops.
- Properly use off-duty time for sleep, not activities that add more fatigue.
- Use available conformance techniques like consuming caffeine, taking short naps, or playing the radio.
Public Awareness and Safe Driving
The existence of drowsy truck driving also necessitates increased public awareness and safe driving habits. Auto drivers should:
- Maintain safe distances from trucks and avoid cutting them off.
- Pay attention to any truck swerving, inconsistent speeds, or delayed reactions.
- Call the authorities to report suspected drowsy truck driving.
- Be alert and minimize distractions when driving near large trucks.
The Role of Truck Accident Attorneys
Ultimately, addressing truck driver fatigue requires a team effort between government, carriers, drivers, and the motoring public, but truck accident lawyers in Colorado also play their part. An experienced truck accident lawyer from Monge & Associate can help you get compensation if a fatigued truck driver caused an accident and left you injured.
We have offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Colorado, Illinois, and Kansas.
Call now for a free consultation on (888) 477-0597.