Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist has urged motorists “to take extra care” following the recent flu outbreak. The outbreak is one of the most significant seen in recent years.
With hospital admissions rising and pharmacies reporting shortages of popular remedies, GEM is encouraging drivers to check the effects of any medication before driving. Some over-the-counter cold and flu treatments and certain painkillers can cause drowsiness, slow reaction times, and reduce concentration. These can all “significantly increase the risk of a collision,” it said.
“Many people are suffering from colds, coughs and flu at the moment, so it’s understandable that drivers want some relief from symptoms such as headaches, fever and congestion,” GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said. “However, some medicines can make you drowsy and therefore unfit to drive. If you ignore the warnings, you could be breaking the law as well as putting yourself and others at increased risk of a collision.
If you feel unwell, he added, or if medication you take carries a drowsiness or “may affect driving” warning, the advice is simple, “do not drive.”
“Arrange alternative transport while you recover, or ask your doctor or pharmacist if there’s a non-drowsy alternative,” he said.
Driving while unfit due to medication can be treated in the same as driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, with penalties potentially including heavy fines, driving bans, and even prison sentences.
The organisation has the following tips for drivers with cold or flu symptoms:
- Check the label: always read medicine packaging carefully for warnings about drowsiness or impaired alertness.
- Ask a professional: if unsure about taking a medicine or the effect it may have, speak to your pharmacist or GP about safer, non-drowsy alternatives.
- Assess how you feel: if you feel light-headed, tired or have trouble concentrating, avoid driving altogether.
- Plan ahead: arrange alternative transport, postpone your journey or ask someone else to drive if possible.
- Stay hydrated and rest: good rest and fluids can help recovery; both are important before getting back behind the wheel.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback to help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
