Queensland's road toll has declined steadily during the past decade, yet heavy vehicle crashes continue to contribute to an alarming 10 percent of fatalities on Queensland roads. Although fatigue has been identified as a significant factor in road crashes, there is new evidence to suggest that this temporary physical condition is just one of the many health and lifestyle components that contribute to crash risk In order to examine health and lifestyle factors which may contribute to crash risk, 44 heavy vehicle drivers were surveyed. It was found that heavy vehicle drivers generally conformed to a lifestyle that was not conducive to healthy outcomes. The issues of diet, family dynamics, leisure pursuits, sleeping pattern, lifestyle and health habits play a significant role in the driver's health, mental health and well-being. The data identified the need to further examine the health and lifestyle of long distance drivers. More significantly, it revealed the need to monitor the potential impact of these issues upon road safety and risk management. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E202589.
Abstract