Sleep Status and the Risk Factor of Drowsy-Related Accidents in Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers

Abstract

Background and Objective The purpose of this study was to describe prevalence of sleep problems including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), insomnia, and sleep insufficiency in commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers, and to quantify risk of drowsy-related accidents in CMV drivers. Methods CMV drivers were invited to participate in this study. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire about sleep habits, sleep disorders, work environments, and experience of drowsy-related accidents. A home sleep test (Watch-PAT 200) was also undertaken to detect OSA. Results Among 110 participants, 89 with eligible data of questionnaires and home sleep tests were included in the analysis. 91.0% of participants had OSA with peripheral arterial tonometry respiratory distress index (pRDI) ≥ 5/h and 23.6% had moderate to severe OSA with pRDI ≥ 15/h. 55.1% perceived that their sleep is insufficient. 52.3% of participants experienced drowsy driving. Drowsy driving-related motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) and near miss MVCs were reported by 9.6% and 37.9% of participants, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that increased risk of drowsy driving was associated with perceived sleep insufficiency [odds ratio (OR) = 3.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26–9.64]. Increased risk of drowsy driving-related near miss MVC was associated with perceived sleep insufficiency (OR = 3.06, 95% CI 1.11–8.44) and continuous driving for more than 4 hours (OR = 3.10, 95% CI 1.00–9.58). Conclusions OSA and perceived sleep insufficiency are prevalent in CMV drivers. Perceived sleep insufficiency and longer continuous driving hours increased risk of drowsy-related accidents.

Keywords

• Traffic accidents
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Sleep deprivation
• Insomnia
• Fatigue