Driving and drugs don’t work

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15 December 2011

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 head of driver training Simon Elstow 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.”

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Notes to editors:

  1. drivingadvice.org.uk
  2. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
  3. For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

 

Media contacts:

IAM Drive & Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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