Do Truck Drivers Who Drink More Caffeine Have More Truck Accidents?

September 16, 2020

Driving while drowsy is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. In fact, one out of three drivers admit to driving while drowsy, making it one of the top causes of car accidents and truck accidents. So, how do drivers who travel for long periods of time combat drowsiness? Many drivers might say that caffeine is a good source of energy, but a recent study has linked the over consumption of caffeine to an increase in accidents.

What Did the Study Reveal?

Researchers from the United Kingdom and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute surveyed over 3,000 truck drivers and divided them into two groups. One group would consume five cups of caffeinated beverages, and the other group would consume one beverage. During a three-year span, the results showed that nearly 28 percent of those in the higher-caffeinated group were in truck accidents.

It is important to note that those in the higher-caffeinated group also reported poor health and habits, such as not eating, sleeping, and drinking excessively and smoking.

Why is it Bad to Drink Too Much Caffeine?

Drinking too much caffeine is linked to poor health, which may be an underlying cause of drowsiness and accidents. In fact, there are many studies that show that coffee and other caffeinated drinks provide energy only on a short-term basis.

Consumers that drink too much caffeine seem to have other unhealthy habits as well. This implies that the body becomes accustomed to the caffeine, which makes it ineffective. Instead of getting the energy and focus they need to operate their trucks safely, truck driver might be unaware that caffeine may not be helping at all. Drinking too much caffeinated beverages may actually endanger drivers.

Additionally, studies show that coffee drinkers actually become dependent on caffeine. It is important that truck drivers limit their caffeine consumption because it leads to healthier lifestyles and reduces their risk for accidents.

What Should I Do if I am Injured by a Negligent Truck Driver?

If a truck driver is drowsy and causes an accident, the driver or the trucking company may be liable for property damage and injuries. If a truck driver wants to drink caffeinated drinks to combat drowsiness, it is best to do so in moderation.

After a truck accident, a victim should seek immediate medical care. Truck accidents are often serious, so it is imperative that a victim takes care of their injuries and also receives compensation for the costs. An experienced lawyer will help a victim file a personal injury claim to collect necessary damages.

Delaware Truck Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients Injured by Drowsy Truck Drivers

Drowsy driving is prevalent in the trucking industry, but it is also important that drivers avoid drinking too much caffeinated beverages. If you were injured by a negligent truck driver, speak to one of our Delaware truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Our knowledgeable lawyers help truck accident victims get compensation for their costly injuries. Complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445 for a free consultation today. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.