When you drive on California highways, you have no idea how alert and awake the truckers you see are when they are behind the wheel. A recent study now may give you even more pause. Drivers who fuel themselves with caffeine are more likely to get in an accident than others. Given the hazard that trucks pose in general, this can be frightening for motorists.
The study results
The research study surveyed truck drivers about their caffeine use. The researchers then compared the accident statistics of both categories of drivers. A total of 27% of drivers who were heavy users of caffeine were involved in truck accidents during the survey period. This compares to the drivers who did not drink a lot of coffee or energy drinks, 21% of whom got in accidents.
Is caffeine the cause?
The survey did not point the finger at caffeine as the cause of more accidents. There is still much work to be done before that conclusion is reached. There may be other factors that go along with caffeine that heighten the risk of a truck accident. For example, people who consume excessive amounts of coffee may also be heavy smokers and maintain poor diets. His or her general level of health may impact how alert a driver is behind the wheel and how safe he or she is when driving. Healthier individuals may be better drivers.
If you have been in a collision with a truck, chances are that you have sustained serious injuries. If so, you may be entitled to a high-damages award for the medical and financial impacts of your accident. You should seek out an attorney who specializes in motor vehicle accidents assist you with filing a claim with the insurance company. A lawyer may then help you negotiate a settlement that may compensate you for what you lost in the accident.