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Truckers put a lot of strain on their body

On Behalf of | Apr 12, 2019 | Workers' Compensation |

As a truck driver, you know just how much strain you put on your body. Day in and day out, you’re behind the wheel, carrying heavy loads and getting in and out of your truck.

Furthermore, truckers are at risk of an on-the-road accident with another vehicle, which can result in a variety of serious injuries, ranging from a concussion to broken bones to lacerations.

Truck driver injuries are often related to the following:

  • Lifting heavy cargo
  • Overexertion
  • Being hit by an object
  • Crush between
  • Falling
  • Repetitive stress on a particular body party
  • Gripping improperly

Even if you have a plan in place for avoiding these common causes of injuries, you never know when an accident could occur. For example, you could slip and fall when exiting your truck in St. Paul, thus breaking your leg or ankle upon impact.

Strains and sprains are common

Driving a truck, day in and day out, can take a toll on your body. This is the result of remaining in the same position for an extended period of time.

Strains and sprains are common injuries among truckers, which typically affect:

  • Back, neck and shoulder region
  • Arms and legs
  • Elbows
  • Knees

For example, constant turning of the steering wheel can cause tennis elbow, which results in pain and discomfort that makes it difficult to do your job.

How to prevent injury

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent injury, but there are some things you can do to help yourself:

  • Take regular breaks when driving for an extended period of time
  • Eat a healthy diet
  • Attempt to get exercise, even when you’re traveling
  • Get enough sleep
  • Take care of your body, such as by immediately treating injuries

If you suffer any type of injury as a trucker, here are the steps you should take:

  • Receive immediate medical care
  • Work with your doctor to implement the proper treatment strategy
  • Talk to your doctor about your profession as a trucker and whether you should take time off
  • Learn more about your right to receive workers’ compensation benefits in Minnesota

When you do all these things, you’ll feel better about making a full recovery and receiving workers’ compensation until you can return to your job.

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