DOT Physicals
Get Your DOT Physical Done at Sunrise Chiropractic in Twin Falls
Where to Get a DOT Physical
Along with a physical exam, the following tests will be performed:
Vision
You will be asked to read a vision chart to ensure that you are able to see traffic signs and signals, as well as distinguish colors.
Hearing
Please clean your ears before your visit so that Dr. Ward can examine your eardrum. You will need to prove the ability to perceive a forced whisper at a distance of 5 feet or less.
Blood Pressure
Urine
Why is a DOT Physical Needed?
Safety is the most obvious answer, but it's a little more nuanced than that. With the vast number of vehicles on the roads, especially commercial ones that can carry hazardous materials or a large number of passengers, it's imperative that drivers are in their best health. The physical and mental demands of long hours on the road, combined with the responsibility of maneuvering large vehicles, make this checkup a critical requirement.
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Ensuring Public Safety: A driver's well-being is directly linked to the safety of other road users. If a driver suffers from a medical condition that can impair judgment or reaction times, it can lead to accidents.
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Protecting the Driver: The DOT Physical can help detect potential health issues early on, allowing drivers to seek treatment or make lifestyle changes to avoid more severe problems down the line.
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Regulatory Compliance: It ensures that all commercial drivers adhere to federal health standards, ensuring a uniform benchmark of health and safety across the industry.
How Often Do You Need a DOT Physical?
Typically, a DOT Physical certification lasts for up to 24 months. However, there are instances where the medical examiner might issue a certificate for less time. This shorter duration can arise if a health condition requires monitoring, like high blood pressure.
If a condition that can affect driving safety is detected, the medical examiner might require more frequent check-ups. It's always best to be aware of when your current certification is due to expire and schedule your next DOT Physical in advance.
Preparing for Your DOT Physical
To streamline your visit and ensure accurate results:
- List of Medications: Bring a list of all medications, including the doses and doctors' names and addresses.
- Eyewear: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them along.
- Hearing Aids: If you use hearing aids, ensure they are in good working order and bring them to the exam.
- Medical History: Be prepared to provide a detailed medical history.
DOT Physicals play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards on our roads, ensuring that every commercial vehicle driver is fit to handle the immense responsibility that comes with the job. Dr. Ward remains committed to providing rigorous, detail-oriented DOT Physicals, ensuring that you are compliant with all regulations and fit for the road.
If you need to schedule your DOT Physical in Twin Falls, contact us today and we will get you in as soon as possible.
