People in Ohio and across the U.S. are getting less sleep according to a new study by researchers at Ball State University. What’s worse is that many professional drivers are among the most sleep deprived.
Researchers found that the number of Americans getting seven hours of sleep or less per night jumped from 30.9% in 2010 to 35.9% in 2018. However, the numbers are even worse among those working in the transport industry. The study found that the number of transport drivers not getting adequate rest spiked from 32% to 41% over the last decade, which is an increase of 28%. Meanwhile, the study found that 50% of police and military members, 45% of health care support workers and 41% of production workers fail to get enough sleep within each 24-hour period. According to the lead author of the study, the research team couldn’t identify specific reasons why people are getting less sleep.
The study also found that the number of men getting seven hours or less of sleep increased from 30.5% in 2010 to around 35.5% in 2018. For women, the numbers jumped from 31.2% in 2011 to 35.8% in 2018. The numbers of white, black, Asian and multiracial adults reporting inadequate sleep also increased over the same period of time. Studies have found that sleep deprivation is linked to a range of physical and mental health issues. It can also increase the risk of injury, reduce productivity and increase the risk of premature death.
People who are injured in an accident caused by a drowsy truck driver might have a strong personal injury claim. Columbus, Ohio, truck accident injury lawyers may evaluate a victim’s case and explain the legal remedies available. One possibility might be to file a personal injury claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and more.