The affect of stimulant drugs on driving

Are you aware that stimulant drugs are still being used bylong-haul truck drivers to supposedly enhance driving endurance? Variousfactors come into play that cause drivers to feel pressured to resort tostimulant drugs. However, the full effect of these substances may not berealised by truck drivers, leading to regrettable accidents. It is importantfor truckers to understand how to best manage long haul trips and driverfatigue, which in turn will contribute to a more successful career.

Why are stimulantdrugs being used?

There are a few contributing factors to the continual use ofstimulant or stay awake drugs among truck drivers. These include externalpressures resulting from productivity-based payments, strict ETAs andpenalties, long distances and hours of work and consequential difficulties inmanaging fatigue. The use of drugs can also give companies the impression thatthe driver can cope with longer trips than they actually can; creating along-term issue.

What affect dostimulant drugs have on the body and driving ability?

Stimulantsare the second most common drug after alcohol to be associated with culpabilityfor fatal collisions. Based on an Australian study*, a truck driver using amphetamines is8.8 times more likely to be culpable for a fatal collision than a drug andalcohol-free driver. This is the highest risk ratio for any substance includinghigh dose alcohol.

It isdifficult to predict precisely, in what way and for how long,amphetamine-stimulants will affect the ability to drive safely. Generally,amphetamine-type stimulants can cause lapses of attention, disorientation, lackof coordination, difficulty reacting appropriately to hazards, aggressivedriving, increased risk taking and overconfidence in driving skills. As thedrug wears off, drowsiness, irritability and difficulty concentrating becomemore prevalent.

How to manage longhaul trips and driver fatigue

Due to the high risk and history of fatal accidentsassociated with stimulant drugs, there is an urgent need to understand how tomanage long haul trips and driver fatigue. Some key considerations include:

• Discuss designated hours with your management team. Ensureyou have a balance between day and night hours with sufficient breaks betweentrips;
• If your salary is productivity-based, consider a restructureto relieve of any external pressures;
• Make sure you get adequate sleep and rest prior to longtrips;
• Plan your breaks prior to departure so you can access truckstop rest areas at regular intervals;
• During your breaks, have a healthy snack and do somestretches to keep your body alert;
• And, caffeine is an appropriate stimulant and does not haveany detrimental impact on your driving ability when consumed in moderation.

While stimulant drugs may appear to enhance driverperformance in the short-term, it is important to consider the long-termdetriments of usage.

*ForensicMedical Consultants