DRIVING AND DRUGS DON’T WORK

Published by Gerald Ferreira Date: December 15, 2011
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Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he is giving advice on the risks of the effects of legal drugs.

• When you begin a new medication, ask the doctor or pharmacist about the side effects.
• Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you drive for work.
• Read the leaflet and labels with the medication for advice concerning side effects.
• Many medications may affect your driving even though you feel fine.
• If your medicine makes you dizzy or drowsy and you need to drive, talk to your doctor about taking medication which doesn’t have these side effects.
• Monitor your fluid intake (dehydration affects your concentration level) and remember caffeine is a diuretic.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: “Everyone knows that driving and taking illegal drugs is reckless and dangerous. But prescription and over-the-counter medication can also affect your ability to drive.”