Mental Health and Truck Driver Negligence
Operating a commercial truck is no small feat and requires a driver who is both physically and mentally healthy. An intense focus and stamina are necessary for driving a large truck. The long hours on the road can take a toll on a truck driver and interfere with their mental health. This can lead to accidents that result in serious injuries for everyone who is involved. If you were injured by a truck driver it is advisable to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your legal options.
Common Mental Health Conditions of Truck Drivers
Mental health affects many people across the United States, and truck drivers are especially susceptible to mental health issues. Some of the more common conditions that truck drivers suffer from include but are not limited to:
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Anxiety
- Withdraw, loneliness, and isolation
- Insomnia
Some truck drivers fear that if they seek treatment for these issues, their jobs will be at risk. When a truck driver ignores their mental health issues and instead leans on other substances like drugs and alcohol to compensate, serious accidents can happen.
The Importance of Truck Driver Mental Health
Driving a large, heavy truck comes with a responsibility to maintain safety for yourself and the other vehicles around you. Those drivers who are not able to focus completely on the task at hand, driving, pose a serious threat to every other person on the road. A healthy mental state is essential to driving a truck safely. When a truck driver suffers from a mental health disorder, they might display erratic behavior that can lead to a serious accident due to negligence. When a truck driver is suffering from untreated mental health issues, they might display dangerous behaviors, such as:
- Road rage
- Reckless driving
- Driving while exhausted
- Distracted driving
A professional truck driver who shows signs of reckless and aggressive driving is a dangerous threat to everyone around them. Unfortunately, drivers that suffer from mental health issues and do not seek treatment are at risk of harming themselves and other drivers. If you have been injured by a truck driver who displayed negligent behavior that resulted in a serious accident, speak with a skilled attorney right away.
Hurt in a Truck Accident? A Round Rock Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you have been injured in a truck accident, you know just how terrifying that can be. The aftermath of an accident can leave victims feeling helpless and overwhelmed. At Elissa I. Henry Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the challenges facing those who have been injured in a truck accident and are dedicated to helping our clients receive just compensation. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your case, so don’t delay – contact us online or call us today at (512) 766-4529 to schedule an appointment. We are here and ready to help you navigate the legal process in the event of an injury caused by truck driver negligence.
