A Sleep Apnea and Trucking Conference was held in Baltimore last spring, which shed some light on trucking sleep apnea.
Statistics show that nearly one-third of all truck drivers may have some form of sleep apnea. This is compared to only six percent of the general population.
People with sleep apnea are more likely to cause a truck crash or car accident. Factors such as poor eating habits, lack of sleep, or lack of exercise (all common issues for truckers) only add to the problem.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can be easily diagnosed and treated. A simple sleep test can show whether a driver has OSA or another sleep disorder. Treatments range from minor habit adjustments (such as bedtime routine) to surgery.
Some truck companies already require their employees to take a sleep apnea test, and there is talk of it becoming a nationwide requirement.
Sleep apnea testing can be beneficial to victims of a Maryland semi wheeler crash in two ways:
First, if the driver tested positive for sleep apnea but did not treat the disease, an experienced Maryland truck accident attorney may be able to prove the driver's negligence and responsibility for your injuries.
Second, if the driver was not tested before the accident but is later shown to have a sleep disorder, you may be able to sue based on the driver's lack of seeking a diagnosis or treatment.
The Maryland accident attorneys at Nickelsporn & Lundin have the experience necessary to handle your truck crash case and help you get the benefits you deserve.
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