Beginning in 2014, professional commercial drivers of trucks and buses will have to meet new, more stringent health examination requirements, according to a recent article from The Associated Press.
The medical examination requirements that will take effect in 2014 are designed to enhance rules already enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Currently, truck drivers are required to have a medical examination once every two years in order to maintain their Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). Drivers are referred for follow-up care if they have conditions or risk factors that might impair their driving, such as sleep apnea.
Under the new rules, drivers will be required to see a medical examiner more frequently, especially if they are diagnosed with any of several conditions related to the sedentary nature of truck driving. High blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea are just three of the conditions on the list. By increasing the monitoring and treatment of these conditions, the agency hopes to improve the health of drivers, so that they can focus on the road more effectively and prevent or avoid tractor trailer accidents that could harm them or others on the roadways.
When a truck driver’s health is poor, his or her driving can be affected, resulting in an accident that causes serious injury or death. If you’ve been injured in a truck or bus accident, the skilled Colorado Springs truck accident attorneys at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. can help. Call us today at (719) 475-2555 for a free and confidential case evaluation.