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Warning for Drivers with Swine Flu

 Warning for Drivers with Swine Flu

Motorists are being warned of the dangers of driving under medication, as cases of swine flu continue to rise across the UK.

Illnesses have a significant impact on your driving abilities, especially when combined with medication or alcohol. Many sufferers experience sleepless nights brought on by coughs and sneezes and take medication or a hot alcohol-based drink to help them sleep.

Cold and flu medicines often contain antihistamines that can make you feel drowsy and have a serious impact on your ability to drive, especially if you have lost sleep or have alcohol remaining in your system from the night before.

Neil Cunliffe, Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group Manager, said: "When people talk about drugs most of us think it relates to people taking illegal drugs. Many motorists have no idea that if they are taking any kind of medication, including prescription drugs or over the counter remedies, these might also have side effects which may affect their ability to drive."

Safe driving requires concentration and good reactions, both of which are significantly reduced, even by just a mild cold. Some of the effects medication can have on you include reducing your reaction times and concentration levels and they can also cause fatigue or drowsiness.

The Road Safety Group's top tips are:

• Make sure you're fit to drive before you get into your car.
• Always make sure that you read the guidance leaflets that come with your medication. If they tell you to avoid driving then don't take the risk.
• If you are unsure of the effects your medication could have on your driving, remember to ask your pharmacist or GP.

Neil added: "It might be tempting to try to carry on as normal when you're feeling ill, but in reality you could be endangering your safety and that of other road users. The most important thing to remember is that if you feel uncomfortable or in any way unable to drive, don't risk it. Use public transport, organise a lift or walk if it is appropriate."

For more information on this issue please click here  

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