Health

4 Fascinating Facts About DOT Physicals You Didn’t Know

In Hackensack, New Jersey, DOT physicals are not just for pilots and truckers. They’re necessary for anyone driving a commercial vehicle in the United States. And while you might think that all your personal info is safe because it’s a requirement by law, there are some fascinating facts about DOT physicals that you may not know. Here is the outline. However, pay a visit to the finest center offering DOT physicals in Hackensack, NJ.

They Help Reduce Road Accidents

You may not have realized it, but drivers who don’t meet the minimum DOT physical requirements are linked to road accidents. One study showed that those who failed their DOT physicals had three times as many crashes as those who passed, and they were 11.4% more likely to be involved in an accident than those with satisfactory.

It’s More Than Just a Checkup

The DOT physical isn’t just about checking your vital signs and ensuring you’re not too exhausted to drive safely. It also has some exciting components considered before it’s passed or failed. For instance, the color of your sclera can hurt your chances of getting through the physical without more testing. 

It’s also not just about your health, but whether or not you’re physically fit enough to operate a truck safely. All DOT physicals are given by medical professionals who are specifically trained to understand how commercial vehicles work and what it takes for an individual to pass. 

If you’ve failed this test in the past, there are some things you can do to set yourself up for success the next time around. First, make sure that your health is top-notch outside of your cardiovascular system. Second, it’s essential to be prepared by getting more sleep than usual before the test and allowing enough time to drive there since rush hour traffic will slow you down.

The Time Interval for DOT Physicals is Two Years

Have you ever wondered why DOT physicals are only given every two years? The answer lies in the equipment used to test your blood, urine, and vision. Blood glucose meters are often calibrated yearly, so the testing interval is set this way for diabetics. Vision tests can also be affected by changes in light or dust exposure over a year, so it’s best to check them every two years.

Every DOT Physical is Unique

In the United States, all state Departments of Transportation require their unique drug and alcohol exams. For example, only California and Virginia test for anabolic steroids and diuretics (which can act as masking agents) during their DOT physicals. All in all, when you’re going through your next DOT physical, keep in mind that it’s not just about you and your health; it’s also about safety on the road.

A DOT physical is required for anyone who operates a commercial vehicle, but it’s more than just checking vital signs and making sure you’re not too exhausted to drive safely. When going through your next DOT physical, keep in mind that it’s about safety on the road as well as whether or not you’re physically fit enough to operate a truck.