GEM Issues Medicines Warning As Cold And Flu Season Arrives

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is warning motorists about the dangerous effects medication can have on driving.

As part of its ongoing campaign to raise awareness, GEM has produced a free leaflet entitled ‘Don’t Motor on Meds’, which offers advice on driving while taking prescription drugs.

Some cold and ‘flu treatments, painkillers and other drugs can cause drowsiness, reducing a driver’s ability to concentrate on the driving task. Not only that, but driving under the influence of drugs, even some prescribed by a doctor, is a criminal offence.

GEM chief executive David Williams MBE said: “You may not be aware that your driving can be compromised by medicinal drugs. Therefore you could be breaking the law without realising.

“So it’s very important to read labels and seek advice from healthcare professionals before driving. 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.”