Trucking is a mentally and physically demanding profession. Without it, the transportation and logistics sectors would fail.
In America, some people may be interested in the nomad way of life for the first time. But there are drawbacks when put into practice. It’s not always tough, but it might be dangerous, lonely, and time-consuming.
Meanwhile, truck drivers still face unique challenges. Extended driving hours and social isolation are truck drivers’ concerns.
Being a truck driver has perks. Trucking brings particular issues, however. Industry professionals must think like drivers. In this post, we will discuss the top 5 concerns that make truck drivers crazy and more about widespread issues related to the local truck driver industry.
1- Long working hours
Truck drivers often face unpredictable work schedules and long hours on the road. Most truck drivers feel exhausted when they have to drive in such conditions.
The 11-hour driving ban that is required by federal law could cause drivers to get tired, have sore muscles from sitting for too long, or lose control of their trucks.
Consequently, most over-the-road drivers work an average of 60 hours a week, but they are not compensated by the hour; they are paid by the mile.
2- All night driving
Large vehicle accidents also happen a lot when people drive at night. The driver is more likely to fall asleep at night because of the way the human body works. This makes driving more dangerous.
Putting aside what’s legal, the question is how long you’ve been driving before it gets dark. In most cases, a truck driver’s internal clock will just stop. That’s one of the top 5 concerns that make truck drivers frustrated.
3- Restricted movement
When forced to stay in one position for a long time, the human body gets tired quickly. That’s because, even if they try, drivers may not be able to engage their muscles much when confined in the driver’s cabin. There is a risk of injury to the spine and neck from sitting in one position for a long time.
A steady driving posture causes muscle fatigue, aches, and pains in the neck, back, shoulders, and arms. So, driving for a living is a risk factor for MSK disorders because it involves long hours and staying in the same position.
4- Unhealthy diet
People whose main activities are eating fast food and watching TV are more likely to slow down their metabolism and have health problems.
Most truckers’ trailers have microwaves so drivers can heat up quick meals while on the road.
Prepackaged, ready-to-eat fast food from a box is not a good option for your diet. You may gain weight and risk obesity if you don’t work out.
5- Social isolation
Because truck drivers are often unhappy, logistics companies have a hard time finding new people to work in the trucking industry.
Truck drivers seldom travel with someone they might consider a coworker. Working alone for extended periods of time may be a depressing experience.
It’s due to a lack of social interaction and companions. The nature of the job and the fact that drivers are never at home can hurt their personal lives and even end some relationships. The drivers missed important family events like birthdays and holidays.
Final thought
Drivers of heavy trucks are still vital to the global economy. But because of the stress of their jobs, truck drivers are more likely to have anxiety and depression.
We discussed the top 5 challenges that make truck drivers crazy because time constraints, shift work, poor sleep, and isolation may all contribute to job stress, poor mental health, and an unsatisfactory work-life balance in an aging workforce with high injury rates. That’s why the trucking industry is suffering.