ASD 206: Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue is a reality for many truckers, who frequently work outside the typical nine-to-five schedule. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports an estimated 16.5 percent of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. involve a fatigued driver. Reduced alertness levels not only put commercial drivers lives at risk, but also jeopardize the safety of others on the road. As a leading advocate for safe transportation through rested and alert commercial operators, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine is now offering a free online presentation for truckers describing the signs, causes and effects of driver fatigue and some strategies to manage it. This includes planning well-timed sleep breaks, managing off-hour responsibilities and improving sleep environments.