What is the Number One Injury for Truck Drivers?
By Ben Gobel on September 10, 2024
The trucking industry is highly demanding and exposes drivers to various risks and hazards. The nature of the job, which often involves driving long distances, heavy lifting, and repetitive tasks, makes truck drivers particularly susceptible to injuries.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), truck drivers have one of the highest rates of work-related injuries among all occupations. Understanding the most common injuries truck drivers face can help them take preventive measures and seek appropriate medical attention.
Truck Driver Injury Statistics
The number one truck driver injury is musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), notably lower back pain. These repetitive stress injuries are often caused by the physical demands of the job, such as loading and unloading cargo, prolonged sitting, and vibrations from the truck. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), truck drivers experience a high incidence of MSDs, with lower back pain being the most common injury for truck drivers. Studies show that nearly 50% of truck drivers report experiencing lower back pain at some point in their careers.
Common Causes of Lower Back Injuries for Truck Drivers
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of lower back pain among truck drivers:
Extended Hours: Many truck drivers spend long periods sitting in the same position, which can strain the lower back muscles and spine.
Improper Lifting Techniques: Loading and unloading cargo without proper lifting techniques can lead to muscle strains and injuries.
Poor Ergonomics: The design of truck seats and the lack of ergonomic adjustments can contribute to poor posture and back pain.
Vibrations: Continuous exposure to vibrations from the truck can exacerbate musculoskeletal issues.
Repetitive Movements: Tasks like shifting gears and operating controls repeatedly can strain muscles and joints and cause repetitive motion injuries.
Lack of Physical Activity: Truck drivers often get little physical exercise due to the sedentary nature of the job, which can weaken muscles, contribute to mental health issues, and make them more susceptible to spinal cord injuries. Additionally, the lack of regular stretching or movement breaks can lead to stiffness and an increased risk of musculoskeletal problems.
Symptoms of Chronic Lower Back Pain Injuries
Lower back pain can manifest in various ways, including:
Persistent Pain: Continuous or intermittent pain in the lower back region, which can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation. This pain may worsen with prolonged sitting, standing, or lifting.
Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and difficulty in moving or bending, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks. Stiffness is often more pronounced after periods of inactivity, such as waking up in the morning or after long drives.
Muscle Spasms: Sudden, involuntary contractions of the back muscles, which can be both painful and debilitating. These spasms may occur after physical exertion or even without any apparent trigger.
Radiating Pain: Pain that extends from the lower back to the legs or buttocks, often following the path of the sciatic nerve. This condition, known as sciatica, can cause sharp, shooting pain that makes walking or standing difficult.
Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the lower extremities, which may indicate nerve compression or damage. This can lead to a loss of sensation or a “pins and needles” feeling in the legs and feet.
Weakness: A feeling of weakness in the legs or feet, which can affect balance and mobility. This symptom may be accompanied by difficulty in lifting the foot or dragging it while walking.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in bending, twisting, or stretching due to pain and stiffness. This can impact a truck driver’s ability to perform essential job functions, such as loading and unloading cargo or performing vehicle inspections.
Fatigue: Chronic pain can lead to fatigue and a general sense of being unwell, as the body expends extra energy to cope with the discomfort. This can affect a driver’s overall performance and alertness on the road and is a leading cause of fatal crashes.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention.
Preventive Measures to Mitigate Against Lower Back Pain
Here are some truck driver safety tips to minimize the risk of lower back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders:
Proper Lifting Techniques: To avoid strain, use correct lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight.
Ergonomic Adjustments: Adjust the truck seat to support proper posture and reduce strain on the back.
Regular Breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch and move around to prevent stiffness and muscle fatigue.
Exercise: Engage in regular physical exercise to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.
Use of Supportive Devices: Consider using lumbar support cushions or braces to provide additional support to the lower back.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet: Proper hydration and nutrition can help maintain muscle function and overall health, reducing the risk of injury, neck pain, and shoulder pain.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Truck Driver Injuries Sustained on the Job
If truck drivers sustain lower back injuries or other musculoskeletal disorders while on the clock at a trucking company, they have legal rights and may be entitled to worker’s compensation. Workers compensation laws provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries.
Many drivers can file a workers’ compensation claim to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Additionally, if the injury was caused by employer negligence or unsafe working conditions, drivers may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Consulting with a legal professional can help truck drivers understand their rights and navigate the claims process.
The Lawyers at Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky Provide Legal Help for Injured Truck Drivers. Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation to Discuss the Merits of Your Case.
Lower back pain is the number one injury affecting truck drivers, primarily due to the physical demands and conditions of the job. By understanding the causes and symptoms of this injury, truck drivers can take preventive measures to protect their health.
If injured, it is crucial to seek legal advice from a Pittsburgh semi-truck accident law team to explore truck driving injury claims and ensure proper treatment. Truck drivers and their families should not hesitate to contact Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky at 412-471-8500.