May is Healthy Vision Month. The safe operation of a semi-truck requires that the driver maintain a clear field of vision. This is particularly true when driving in inclement weather, at night, and while operating the vehicle on the highway.
There are several factors that can affect your vision while driving a semi-truck professionally. These include:
Eye strain: from staring at the road for long periods of time
Blurry or double vision
Visual disturbances: caused by stress or fatigue
Eye diseases: like cataracts or glaucoma
Sleep: working shifts without enough sleep
Age: As you age, your eyesight may begin to fade causing you to have difficulty seeing clearly from a distance or even up close. In some cases, this may lead to cataracts or glaucoma which can further impair your vision.
Environmental conditions: Dust, smoke, and fog may reduce visibility for you as well as other drivers on the road. This is especially true if these conditions are accompanied by poor weather conditions such as rain or snow which can create hazardous driving conditions.
Medications: Some prescription medications used for treating various ailments can cause blurred vision or make it difficult for you to see at nighttime. If you suspect certain medications may be affecting your ability to drive safely, consult with your doctor before making any changes in your treatment regimen.
Obesity - If you're overweight, this can cause high blood pressure and heart disease. These conditions will impair your vision and make it difficult for you to drive safely.
Smoking - Smoking has been linked to heart disease, sleep apnea, and other ailments that can lead to poor eyesight. If you smoke, you should quit before driving a semi-truck professionally.
Wearing protective eyewear or sunglasses when outside in bright sunlight. Sunglasses with UV protection help protect your eyes from sunburn and cataracts (clouding of the lens).
More than 23 million Americans aged 18 and above have never undergone an eye exam.
And the reason is that most think that they don’t have an eye problem. This attitude can have consequences in the future. So don't forget to schedule your next eye exam.