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This driver forgot the #1 rule in driving, check your mirrors, when he attempted to make a wide turn into a parking lot. He ran over a brand new 387 Peterbilt with his trailer. The trailer had crushed the battery box on the tractor and was within inches of the fuel tank. There was also a sewer drain within 15 feet so a fuel spill would have created a major environmental hazard. After arriving on scene we implemented a recovery plan utilizing our rotator tow truck to lift the trailer off of the cab and swinging it away from the damaged tractor once there was enough clearance. No further damage was done and our guys did a great job!   

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Lately there has been a lot of media attention with regard to sleep apnea and with good reason. For those men and women driving daily it is a very serious matter and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is taking notice.  The FMCSA is considering recommendations to require sleep apnea screening for all obese drivers based on body mass index or BMI, which is calculated based on height and weight. FMCSA requires medical certification of licensed commercial drivers at least every two years. Studies show that most people afflicted with sleep apnea go undiagnosed by their general practitioners. Of those who are diagnosed, a good majority do not follow through with the use of their CPAP machine. Truck drivers with sleep apnea have up to a 7-fold increased risk of being involved in a motor vehicle crash," said Dr. Philip Parks, medical director of employee health and occupational services at health care provider Lifespan. Those with sleep apnea are also at increased risk for stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart attack. The diagnosis and treatment is covered by most heath insurance carriers and it may be something worth while addressing during your next driver safety meeting.

 

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Loud snoring Morning headaches and nausea Gasping or choking while sleeping Loss of sex drive/impotence Excessive daytime sleepiness

Irritability and/or feelings of depression Disturbed sleep Concentration and memory problems Frequent nighttime urination

Sleep apnea occurs in all age groups and both sexes, but there are a number of factors that may put you at higher risk:

A family history of sleep apnea Having a small upper airway Being overweight Having a recessed chin, small jaw, or a large overbite

A large neck size (17 inches or greater for men, 16 inches or greater for women) Smoking and alcohol use Being age 40 or older Ethnicity

For more information on sleep apnea click the link below: