GEM Motoring Assist, the road safety and breakdown organisation, have released a new leaflet to warn motorists about the effects of medication on driving.
Entitled 'Don't Motor on Meds' the leaflet offers advice on driving while taking prescription drugs as part of Gem's long-term initiative to raise awareness of the issue. GEM road safety officer Neil Worth said: "You may not be aware that your driving can be compromised by medicinal drugs. Therefore you could be breaking the law without realising."
Some cold and 'flu treatments as well as painkillers can cause drowsiness, reducing a driver's ability to concentrate on the driving task. It's a sobering thought, because driving under the influence of drugs, even some prescribed by a doctor, is a criminal offence.
Along with the leaflet, Gem has also produced a video which shows how certain medicines can affect driving. "It's very important to read labels and seek advice from healthcare professionals before driving," continues Worth. "If you face a risk that your driving may be impaired, then either don't drive or ask for a medicine that won't cause drowsy side-effects."
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