Urgent warning to motorists as common cold and flu medicines could lead to driving ban.uk
An important warning has been issued for those taking medications while getting behind the wheel.
Experts warn those who plan to get behind the wheel while on medication (Image: Getty)
Common colds and cases of the flu are affecting people across the nation as temperatures continue to fall.
With that, many of us are relying on medications to help relieve symptoms
However, those who plan on getting behind the wheel after taking any common cold and flu medications should know about the laws or the safety concerns around them.
Some medications that are used to help winter sniffles have side effects that can impact the ability to drive. Side effects to some of these remedies include drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision, which makes it seriously dangerous to drive.
The NHS also advises that anyone who takes medications that can cause drowsiness avoid driving and operating machinery.
The government advises that if you are prescribed drugs including Clonazepam, Diazepam, Flunitrazepam, Lorazepam, Methadone, Oxazepam, Temazepam and Morphine or other opiate and opioid-based medicines, such as codeine, tramadol, or fentanyl, you should consult the doctors about whether it is safe to drive while taking them.
Medicines like ibuprofen can also be recommended to help ease flu and cold symptoms but they can also make you feel dizzy so it is important if that is the case you do not drive.
Driving while you’re unfit to do so because of legal or illegal drugs that have been taken is illegal in the UK.
Anyone discovered driving dangerously under the influence could risk an unlimited fine, a one-year driving ban, six months in prison and a criminal record. Not only that but for the following 11 years, drivers will have the conviction displayed on their licenses, which makes it more challenging to find an insurance provider.
Cold and flu medication can cause drowsiness (Image: Getty )
It is always important that you follow the advice of a healthcare professional on how to take medications and that if you are planning to drive, they will not cause you to be unfit to do so.
James Jackson, CEO of Bumper, an automotive payments provider warned: “Even if you are used to taking a particular medication and believe it doesn’t impact your driving, if you are stopped by the police or involved in an accident, and the medication carries a warning against driving, you could still face charges.”
The Government website says that anyone taking medication should check the leaflet that comes with it to see how the medication may affect driving abilities.
More information can be found in the government’s Drug Safety update.
