Driving jobs that have no or few breaks. Lunches delayed (employers, companies)

[87112]

I am doing a driving job that is so hectic that breaks are skipped or really delayed. I have found myself doing mini naps on the job. ( like .5 seconds or 1 second). the dangerous part is I am behind the wheel doing these mini naps.

I have people who know my run times and when the delivery is to be made. The customer comes first, driver breaks are a major secondary.

Yesterday my lunch was at 2pm ( I start at 830am) that I found myself hungry and running on fumes. My partner took his at 3pm ( he starts at 9am).

I like getting a workout at the job but fear I might get into an accident or really fall asleep at the wheel.

I feel driving jobs should be given proper rest breaks as you can kill someone driving sleepy or fatigued.

Should this issue have been taken to State L and I or just go to mgr?

[Mike From NIU]

Sounds like you work for one of the big delivery companies (like UPS or FedEx). If it's just about needing food, perhaps you should have a couple of energy bars or easy quick snacks that can provide a pick-me-up until you can take a break. If you're falling asleep behind the wheel, however, that's a sign of being overtired. What time do you go to bed at night, and when do you get up? You may have to go to bed earlier, even if that means you're sacrificing a TV show or sports.

[brownbagg]

there nothing that says you have to get a lunch, they can work you eight hours if they want. start packing a couple sandwiches, and eat while driving. alot of people do.

[Hemlock140]

Originally Posted by brownbagg

there nothing that says you have to get a lunch, they can work you eight hours if they want. start packing a couple sandwiches, and eat while driving. alot of people do.

True, federal law (FLSA) does not, but many if not most states do. Here, for example in WA state, employers must allow a minimum 10 minute break for each 4 hours worked, one no later than the end of the 3rd hour worked. If more than 5 hours are worked, they must allow at least 30 minutes for a meal, starting no more than 5 hours after the start of the shift. The OP could look into the laws of their state, if required point it out to the employer, and report to the state if no change.

[87112]

I have put in my notice, those of you on the road are kind of better off. I am the kind of driver that when fatigued falls victim to " micro naps" OFTEN. Going back to a job where it if tired am not a danger to others.