Can taking medication increase the risk of a car accident?

Medication can contribute to car accidents at any age, but especially in old age.

Canadian Researchers at McGill University in Montreal found a 45 % increase in car accidents resulting in personal injuries caused by people who had been taking benzodiazepines, the drugs used to treat anxiety or insomnia.

What medication affects driving?

Strong prescription drugs that make drivers drowsy can play a significant role in car accidents as they can cause a variety of side effects which are longer lasting.

Reactions to medication can include sleepiness, blurred vision, dizziness, slower movements, fainting, inability to focus and nausea. Medication which causes these kind of side effects includes those prescribed for allergies, anxiety, cold and flu, depression, diabetes, heart conditions, high blood pressure, muscle spasm, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and hayfever.

Not all medication prohibits driving, however. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose or the timing of the medication you're using or change the medication to one that doesn't make you drowsy. Many hayfever tablets, for example, come in drowsy and non-drowsy versions.

Sleep medication can continue to have an effect the day after the pills are taken. More drivers are found to test positive for sleep medication in their bloodstream than alcohol.

You may wish to try an alternative treatment to make sure that you don't fall asleep behind the wheel and cause a car accident. The sleep council at www.sleepcouncil.com has more information about sleep processes and tips for sleepers.

Trust your instincts

It's essential to read the instructions on the packet and to follow them carefully but it's equally important to trust your instincts. Monitor your body when taking prescription drugs and if you begin to feel drowsy, don't drive.

If you're driving and you begin to feel sleepy make sure that you stop immediately in a safe place and perhaps have a cup of coffee and a walk around. If the tiredness persists, consider getting home another way. Sharing the driving responsibilities with other people is a good idea if you are going on a long journey.

Car accident compensation

Experiencing a car accident is always distressing but when it is not your fault it is even more frustrating.

Most drivers who have been involved in a non-fault accident are eligible for personal injury compensation. Our team of solicitors are personal injury specialists and can help you to get the compensation you are entitled to on a no win no fee basis.

Call us now on 0808 143 43 42 for free legal advice or to make a no win no fee car accident claim today.