When you assume driving responsibility, it is important to understand the concept of “under the influence”. Like most things in law, it can take many forms.
There are many ways that people can become “under the influence”, and not just when they consume illegal substances. Prescription drug abuse or illegal drug use are the most common causes of impaired driving . Other legal, over-the-counter, and prescription drugs can also impact your ability to safely drive . Side effects of antidepressants and opioids can lead to blurred vision, drowsiness, nausea and other dangerous side effects.
You should not drive if you’re taking prescription drugs or receiving a higher dose. Keep in mind, however, that some medications can cause impairment. They can cause impairment if taken together with other medications or alcohol.
NHTSA Must-Knows About Legal Drug Use
- Prescription drugs can cause drowsiness and nausea. They can also affect judgement and coordination. This can all lead to serious consequences when driving.
- Prescription drugs can cause drowsiness, nausea, and impaired judgment. They can also affect coordination and lead to accidents.
- Side effects of over-the counter drugs include dizziness, dizziness and nausea.
- Prescription medications and antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of crashes, such as opioids, muscle relaxants and sedatives.
- Some medications may not cause impairment by themselves, but it is possible for them to interact with other drugs or alcohols.
- Anyone who is in violation of state DUI laws could be arrested for driving while impaired by prescription drugs or over-the-counter medicines.
Driving Skills
According the Department of Motor Vehicles , safe driving requires the following skills:
- Strength You can fasten the safety belt and apply the brake to turn the steering wheel.
- Flexibility You can turn your head to see in your mirrors, or look over your shoulder to check for blind spots.
- Stamina: Long-term driving (over 20 mins) without getting tired.
- Vision is the ability to see objects, people, bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles around you. Sharpness and clarity in vision.
- Complex Thinking: Understanding road signals, anticipating hazards and responding appropriately to them to encourage safe driving.
Safe driving is at risk if you get in the way of any one of these skills. Side effects of prescription and over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous. Some of these side effects include:
- Sleepiness.
- Blurred vision.
- Slow reaction and movement.
- Dizziness.
- Fainting.
- Unable to concentrate or pay attention.
- Nausea.
These symptoms can be dangerous for drivers as they directly affect the skills that are required to drive safely.
Summarized from an article by Wilshire Law Firm.
