Taxi drivers in New Jersey make a steady living by shuttling people around from one destination to another. Often, they make this seem effortless as customer relations are all part of the service.
However, driving a taxi is by no means an easy vocation. The shifts are long, taxi drivers commonly assist with lifting heavy items into the vehicle, and there are also risks from being in a seated position for extended periods of time.
As a result, back injuries are common in the industry. How can New Jersey taxi drivers protect their backs?
Sitting in an appropriate posture
Before embarking on their day or night’s work, taxi drivers can adjust their seats, so they are in as upright a position as possible. Slouching and leaning forward while seated can cause a host of problems in the bones, muscles and vertebral discs. Sustaining an injury from bad posture can result in workers having to take long periods off to recover, where they will not be earning an income.
Reducing vibrations
Studies indicate that professional drivers are exposed to whole-body vibrations on a regular basis. The vibrations that go through the body can place nerves and soft tissue under a lot of strain, leading to lower back problems such as sciatica. This risk can be reduced by ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained and suited to the task at hand.
If you work as a taxi driver in New Jersey and have been hurt on the job, there may be legal options open to you, depending on your employment status.
