This week’s case of Tiger Woods being arrested by US police has again highlighted the dangers of taking some prescription drugs.
The renown golfer has been suffering for several years from a back injury and takes medicines to reduce pain, and was this week spotted sleeping in his car beside a highway.
He told officers he was suffering from the side-effects of some tablets which made him sleepy.
Now with the likelihood of more drivers doing longer distances during holidays, the road safety organisation IAM RoadSmart has issued a warning about motoring and medicines.
Illegal substances can affect drivers in several ways, making them unfit for the road, but it is not only illegal drugs that we should be wary of.
Prescribed over the counter drugs can have similar negative affects on motorists and driving while impaired by medication could see you banned from using the road.
IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards Richard Gladman had this warning, “The legislation in relation to driving with prescription drugs is there for everyone’s protection.
“More so than any other impairment, drivers find themselves falling foul of the effects of their prescribed medication by making a decision to take a chance. It is often through lack of knowledge that they find themselves in this position. If you are taking medication check what the side effects are or might be and accordingly plan.”
- Always ask your GP when the medication is prescribed and then confirm the information by reading your medication leaflet before you take it. This can often be overlooked as more pressing medical matters are at the forefront of your mind.If you need further details or advice about your medication ask the pharmacist or get back in touch with your medical professional. Some drugs are based on banned substances but if you stick to a prescription you will not be breaking the law, although your driving can still be impaired
- If you feel in any way affected by your medication don’t take the chance; use a designated driver or use a taxi. Don’t risk your or others’ lives by driving when your concentration or reactions are impaired
- If you are not sure whether you can drive with your medication, don’t get behind the wheel. Use public transport to get to your destination. The government offer advice and also has a list of prescribed medications you are not allowed to drive with, visit https://www.gov.uk/drug-driving-law
- Don’t stop taking your medication. This tip may seem obvious but some motorists may choose the convenience and luxury of driving over health. Ask your healthcare professional if an alternative is available and if not, plan around not being mobile
- Remember some untreated medical conditions and allergies will also affect your ability to drive. The itchy streaming eyes often caused by hay fever can make driving hazardous, while a sudden sneezing fit makes you a real danger. So, manage your symptoms and avoid driving when they are at worst, remembering that pollen particles ease in the evening.