Every time you get behind the wheel, you accept that there is the risk and potential to be involved in an accident. Unfortunately, this is true even if everyone is being cautious and driving safely.
The bigger issue is that the likelihood of a crash is much higher today because of unsafe drivers engaging in things like drowsy driving, distracted driving and even impaired driving.
Do prescribed medications really result in impaired driving?
When you think of an impaired driver, you may imagine someone who has been drinking or using illegal drugs. However, this term also applies to individuals driving after taking prescription medications or some OTC (over-the-counter) medicines.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has stated that the medication itself doesn’t impact a person’s ability to drive safely; however, some side effects may cause reaction times and perception issues. Some of these side effects include dizziness, blurred vision, drowsiness, nausea, the inability to focus and other cognitive issues.
Driving and taking medications
Some drivers have issues planning or preparing to take medications and drive because the side effects aren’t always the same. Understanding the way a medication, or combination of medications, will impact your ability to drive is important.
Because of this, you should use caution and, if possible, plan not to drive when taking medications like:
- Sleeping pills
- Opioid pain relief medications
- Anti-allergy medications
- Anti-seizure medications
- Cold remedies
- Muscle relaxants
- Antipsychotic medications
Some of these medications can have lasting effects, so taking them and driving is discouraged.
Accidents caused by impaired drivers
Prescription medications can cause impairment. Collisions caused by an impaired driver can be serious and result in severe injuries and death. If an impaired driver injures you, you have the right to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.