BEHIND THE WHEEL: UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS FOR TRUCK DRIVERS IN THE ERA OF THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND ADVANCEMENTS IN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Freight transportation is a crucial part of the global economy, but it encounters several complex challenges, with truck drivers at the centre of these issues. These professionals, responsible for transporting goods over long distances, often work in challenging conditions, exposing them to a range of risks, including physical, psychological, and chemical hazards. These risks make the profession less appealing to younger drivers, leading to an ageing workforce and worsening the driver shortage crisis in the road transport sector. This article aims to identify the various risks faced by truck drivers and examine their negative impacts on several critical aspects, including company image, service quality, financial implications, and road safety. Additionally, the article explores the transformative impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) and autonomous vehicles (AV) on the truck driving profession.