Alcohol and recreational drugs are not the only substances that can impair drivers. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may also lessen coordination and affect judgment. Because of this, you must make sure that the medication you take doesn’t have possible side effects that could cause you to get into a severe car accident.
The side effects of medications
Driving while impaired by any substance is illegal and dangerous. This, including driving after taking certain prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Just like driving under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs, driving under the influence of certain over-the-counter or prescription medication can also be illegal and lead to severe car accidents. Some medications that can cause dangerous side effects in drivers are:
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotic drugs
- Muscle relaxants
- Allergy medicines
- Opioids
- Sleep aids
Many other medications can cause dangerous side effects in drivers. Some of the side effects of these medications include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Slowed movement
- Blurred vision
- Shakiness
- Inability to focus or pay attention
- Excitability
All of these side effects can be fatal when driving. Besides, a person who drives under the influence of any medication that affects their ability to drive can be subject to legal claims if they cause an accident.
Protecting yourself
Some medications can cause side effects that can lead to a crash. Also, you could be subject to a lawsuit if you hurt someone for being under the influence of a substance. Because of this, you must read the warning labels of your medication and ask your doctor if you can drive after taking it.
