Does Sleep Apnea Cause Fatigue-Related Truck Crashes?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) thinks that it might. Although studies of the correlation between sleep apnea and fatigue-related truck wrecks have been inconclusive, the FMCSA is taking the possible threat seriously. 

Sleep apnea is a disorder that affects the upper airway by causing it to narrow or close. This condition interferes with sleep and causes fatigue. Studies of sleep apnea and truck crashes have reached differing conclusions. While some studies have found that there is a correlation between sleep apnea and truck wrecks, at least one notable study showed that there was no significant correlation. 

Nevertheless, the debate has continued for many years. In fact, the FMCSA has been weighing whether it should require truckers with a body mass index above a certain number to undergo testing for sleep apnea. The FMCSA does not plan to create any new rules, however, until conclusive scientific evidence about sleep apnea and truck accidents becomes available.  

The FMCSA recently co-sponsored the Sleep Apnea and Trucking Conference with the American Sleep Apnea Association in May 2010. While the conference did not result in any new conclusive evidence, it did encourage discussion and debate about the effects of sleep apnea on truckers. 

Whether sleep apnea causes fatigue-related accidents has not yet been determined by scientific evidence. Fatigue, though, does cause truck accidents. If you have been injured in a Texas truck wreck, contact a Houston truck accident attorney at our firm to learn more about your rights. Call 713-807-9500 or at 877-307-9500 to schedule a free consultation.