Long-distance or track drivers should be physically, mentally, and psychologically fit while at the wheel. This aims at keeping them alert and free of distractions throughout the journey. To ensure that drivers conform to such standards, the law calls for every commercial driver to undergo DOT physicals Hackensack after every two years.
As a truck driver, bus driver, or any other vehicle, ensure your DOT physical is up to date for your safety and other road users. The physicals will help determine whether you are fit to be on the road. Below are a few facts you should know concerning DOT physicals.
Table of Contents
What are DOT physicals?
It is a routine checkup that all commercial drivers must undertake after every two years. The checkup focuses on assessing their neurological and physical health to ensure they are fit to drive a commercial vehicle. It is because some of these buses or trucks are physically demanding.
You, therefore, need to be alert and awake to ensure you are keen and focused on where you are going. The long hours and schedules you spend behind the wheel can increase your risk of developing certain concerns. Routine or regular DOT physicals ensure you do your job safely and are still healthy.
Who needs a DOT physical?
You should note that DOT physicals are for all drivers who drive a vehicle carrying eight or more passengers. All drivers operating a commercial vehicle with fifteen or more passengers should also have a dot physical. Drivers who transport hazardous material and those who operate heavy vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds.
After you have completed a DOT physical, you are issued a certificate that is viable for two years. You might require annual checkups if you are diagnosed with underlying medical problems such as hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, or kidney disease. These checkups help determine your health and determine whether you are improving and fit to continue driving.
What happens during a DOT physical?
The physician starts by reviewing your medical history. He starts by asking about any medications you are taking, how often you exercise, the type of food you eat, and if you usually drink alcohol or smoke. He then conducts a physical examination assessing your hearing, vision, and blood pressure.
They may also order some laboratory tests, including blood work and urinalysis. The laboratory tests help test for illicit substances or concerns like hormonal imbalance or high cholesterol. If your results are normal, you are issued a certificate you should take to your employer.
What should you bring to a DOT physical?
Ensure you have any recent test results, medical records, a list of medications you are taking, and any vision or hearing aid. You should also inform your physician if you have any underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea, hypertension, or heart disease.
Doing so makes it easy for your care provider to offer services and allow you to resume home early. It also lets them advise you on dealing with your medical condition and promotes quick recovery. Your hearing or vision aids can also be changed, especially if ineffective.
You do not have to risk your life and other passengers because of your health. Ensure you undergo a DOT physical to permit you to be behind the wheel. You can drive for short or long distances without any problems or distractions.
You can therefore update or renew your DOT physical by scheduling your appointment at All Health Medical Group. You will undergo all the tests to ensure you are healthy and fit to drive. You are also screened for illicit substance abuse, which might affect your performance at work.
