- Always wear sunglasses.
Everyone knows the dangers of too much-unprotected sun exposure to the skin, but did you know that harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can also impact your eyes negatively? That’s why wearing sunglasses when you drive is so important! UV rays can cause a myriad of eye problems such as cataracts, eye cancers, and macular degeneration. But not all sunglasses are created equal, so be sure to snag a pair that offers 100% UV or UV400 protection, or block both UV-A and UV-B rays. And of course, wear your sunglasses on both sunny and cloudy days, as clouds do not block UV rays, meaning your eyes are still at risk if you’re not protecting them! - Wear your glasses or contacts.
Not only is it unsafe and illegal to neglect to wear your contacts or glasses prescription while driving, but it’s also very bad for your overall health. While your vision will not likely get any worse without wearing your glasses or contacts, you may experience other health issues that result from the strain on your eyes such as eye pain and headaches. Additionally, if you get caught driving without your prescription eyewear, you will likely be fined and may even have your CDL revoked.
- Get your eyes checked yearly.
As we age, our vision can slowly change and become worse. That’s why getting a yearly eye exam is key to keeping your vision healthy for years to come. If you are prescribed corrective lenses, those may need to be updated every year. That way, you will never miss a road sign or mile marker when you are on the road because you will be able to see far ahead of you. Visiting the eye doctor will also help you screen for any potential eye problems that you may develop. Catching issues early on can be the key to keeping your vision or losing it completely, so never neglect your yearly eye exam! - Ditch the cigarettes.
Smoking is bad for your overall health, but it is especially bad for your eyes. Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop serious eye issues such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eye, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts than non-smokers. Smoking is simply not worth losing your vision for, so make an effort to quit smoking for healthier eyes. - Avoid rubbing your eyes.
A lot of people, including truck drivers weary from the long hours on the road, have a bad habit of rubbing their eyes. This habit is far from safe, as your hands are full of dirt and germs that can cause serious eye issues and infections. The act of rubbing your eyes can also cause damage to the cornea of your eye, even if you don’t realize it right away. Over time, the tiny scratches on the cornea can lead to more serious damage and even make your cornea thinner than normal.
Your eyes are important for maintaining your career as a truck driver, so don’t take them for granted! Be sure you are keeping them healthy by implementing these tips so you can keep on trucking for years to come!
