Psychoactive drug use common amongst lorry drivers

Lorry drivers all over the world abuse mind altering substances, according to a study carried out by Brazilian health scientists. The study investigated substance abuse by lorry drivers in Australia, the US and Brazil, and the results are shocking.

The study pooled information from research carried out over the last 13 years. The main finding was that lorry drivers are most likely to abuse alcohol, amphetamines, cannabis and cocaine while on the road.

Alcohol is the most common substance, with up to 80.5% of drivers drinking on the job. Cocaine is least common, with up to 8% of drivers using it. Cannabis is used by up to 30% of drivers. It is important to note that these figures were reported in a few specific studies and are not necessarily indicative of the situation in the UK or in general.

Although some substances do increase alertness, they often only work for a relatively short time. Once the drugs have worn off, severe tiredness can strike suddenly. Many lorry drivers admit to falling asleep at the wheel.

One in three drivers fall asleep

A Dutch study between 2005 and 2007 showed that around 25% of all lorry drivers suffer from sleep deprivation, and one in five drivers had an increased risk of sleep apnoea. The biggest concern is that one in three drivers admitted to falling asleep ‘occasionally or regularly’ while driving.

Lorry drivers suffer pressure to meet deadlines, forcing them to drive for long hours through the night. The longest journeys pay the best rates.

More random drug testing of lorry drivers by transport police could help to persuade some to take a rest rather than another pill.