Factors Associated With Truck Crashes in a Large Cross Section of Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers

Abstract

Objective: 

This large, cross-sectional study calculated prevalence of disorders and assessed factors associated with self-reported lifetime crashes.

Methods: 

Truck drivers (n = 797) completed computerized questionnaires reporting crashes, demographics, psychosocial factors, and other elements, as well as had taken measurements (eg, height, weight, serum, and blood pressure).

Results: 

Most drivers were male (n = 685, 85.9%), and the mean body mass index was 32.9 ± 7.5 kg/m² with 493 (61.9%) being obese. Many drivers (n = 326, 39.9%) experienced at least one, with 132 (16.6%) having multiple, lifetime, reportable crashes. Many factors were associated with crashes, including increasing age, increasing truck driving experience, male sex, alcohol, low back pain, heart disease, and feeling tense. The most consistent associations with crashes were pulse pressure, cell phone use, and feeling physically exhausted after work.

Conclusions: 

Modifiable factors associated with self-reported crashes were identified. These suggest targeted interventions may reduce risks of crashes.