Prescription Drugs And Impaired Driving
While it is well understood that it is reckless to drink alcohol and ingest illegal drugs and drive, many do not take into consideration how their prescription medications impact their driving abilities. But popular medications, from antihistamines to pain medications, can lead to focus issues and dizziness.
Car wrecks, including ones resulting in physical injuries, property damage, and emotional distress, are possible when individuals behind the wheel are impaired. If you have been in an accident with a drugged driver and are unsure how you will be able to pay for all of your medical bills, mental health costs, and auto repair expenses, discuss your situation with a Baltimore car accident lawyer.
Dizziness, Drowsiness, and Fainting
Drugs, both illegal drugs and prescription medications, can interfere with your ability to drive safely. Depending on what the drug is and if you are taking it with any other medications, leading to drug interactions, one or all of the following side effects are possible.
- Inability to focus
- Failure to judge distances correctly
- Aggressiveness and irritability
- Blurred vision and hallucinations
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Fainting or memory loss
- Muscle weakness
- Vomiting or nausea
For example, individuals taking pain medications have reported an inability to focus and people who are taking blood thinners due to blood pressure issues have informed doctors of dizzy spells. Talking through possible side effects and interactions with your doctor is essential for safe driving.
Things to Discuss with Your Doctor or Pharmacist
Any concerns you have about your medications should be discussed with your doctor. This includes asking how the drugs could affect your driving and any adverse effects you have experienced when taking the medication in the past. People also find it helpful to ask about any combined effects of medications and if it is appropriate to take an additional dose of a medication if one dose is missed. Learning how to store prescriptions and when the medication can be stopped is also useful.
Taking care of yourself and being attuned to symptoms is an important part of staying safe, on and off Maryland roadways. If you feel unstable or sick after taking a new prescription or after your dosage has been changed, simply ask someone else to drive. Then, connect with your doctor to have your concerns addressed.
Car wrecks are stressful events and it is common for people involved in crashes to be unsure how to handle the property damage expenses and medical bills that follow. To understand your options after a collision with a drugged driver, or if you were taking prescription medication at the time of the accident yourself, talk to a Baltimore car accident lawyer.
Were you hit by a driver who was under the influence of drugs? A skilled legal team can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and secure the compensation you deserve. The attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP in Baltimore, Maryland, have the knowledge and skills you need to file your claim. If you need legal help, contact us today for a free initial consultation.
