Motoring lawyer Nick Freeman warns drivers concentration can drop “by more than 50 percent” when motorists are ill. He warned drivers who were feeling under the weather were generally “less aware of surrounding traffic” and run the risk of breaking driving laws.
This means drivers were more likely to miss road hazards and be involved in incidents ahead of the festive season.
He said: “Colds and flu are set to outpace last year’s figures.
“So if you`re feeling rotten – and you’ve had a negative Covid test – but don’t feel you can miss out on festive get-togethers, think twice about getting behind the wheel.
“If you have an accident and you were feeling poorly, your health will not provide you with a defence.
READ MORE: Elderly driver measures are about ‘control, not safety’
AA President Edmund King said he knew many would need to drive when they were unwell.
He has warned road users need to be “aware of the added dangers” and “adapt their driving accordingly”.
The AA also warned drivers to take extra precautions when taking any medicines for their illnesses.
They warned some cold medicines can be dangerous for drivers and may contain alcohol.
“Never take anything which could cause drowsiness or exceed the recommended dose.
“For example, medicine that contains codeine can slow reaction times in many people and has been linked to low concentration levels and blurry eyesight — possibly because it causes the pupils to get smaller.
“Previous research by website Confused.com, in partnership with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, found that one in seven motorists who has taken cold or flu medication containing codeine has suffered side-effects at the wheel.”
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest Lifestyle News Click Here
