Health Hazards for Truckers
People who choose careers in driving commercial trucks cite many benefits of the job, including freedom and job security. Unfortunately, like all other jobs, it does have potential downsides, including significant health risks. Alarming statistics have shown that the average trucker’s life span is up to 10 years shorter than the typical American’s. This fact has been linked to many different health risks associated with this career, from catastrophic accidents to illnesses that develop over time.
If you work for a trucking company and have recently been diagnosed with a work-related injury or illness, you could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If you have any questions about your rights or options, call the New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers of Levinson Axelrod, P.A. at 800-346-5529.
Dangers to Avoid
If you or someone you care about works as a truck driver, it is very important to be aware of the more common hazards of this job. Some of the problems truckers may face include:
- Obesity and/or heart problems due to high-fat diets and limited ability to exercise
- Depression caused by long stretches of time away from family, isolation, sleep deprivation, etc
- Spinal conditions caused by poor posture and/or poorly designed seats
- Road fatigue, which can lead to life-threatening traffic accidents
- Abuse of alcohol, amphetamines, or other drugs
- Exposure to toxic substances such as truck exhaust
- Motor vehicle accidents caused by poor weather, driver error, etc
If you have any concerns about your current health or conditions you may develop, talk to your doctor about maintaining healthy eating, sleeping, and exercise schedules even while on the road.
Contact a New Jersey Workers’ Comp Attorney
Chronic medical conditions can significantly strain a family’s finances. To discuss workers’ compensation benefits to which you may be entitled, contact the New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers of Levinson Axelrod, P.A. at 800-346-5529.
