A recent study found that one in five Americans who are taking prescription drugs are not aware that their medications are making safe driving more difficult. These findings are particularly disturbing, because other studies have found that there is a significant relationship between the use of traffic accidents and some prescription drugs.
There are many types of prescription drugs that can impair a person’s driving ability. Benzodiazepines are drugs that can treat anxiety, seizures, insomnia, and more. Benzodiazepines can also be used to sedate patients before dental procedures. Studies have shown that patients who are taking benzodiazepines while driving are up to seven times more likely to be involved in a car crash causing serious injury or death than drivers who are not taking benzodiazepines. There are also many other drugs that can affect a driver’s ability, including antidepressants, stimulants, sedatives, and opioids.
The recent study collected data anonymously from 7,000 drivers. Almost 20 percent reported taking at least one potentially impairing drug within the previous two days. Many of those drivers said that they were not aware that the medication could affect their driving ability. Some demographic groups were more knowledgeable of the dangers of using prescription drugs while driving than others.
The study was not able to determine why so many drivers were unaware that prescription drug use while driving can be dangerous. The findings suggest that increasing warnings may not be enough to get people to change their driving habits – penalties may need to be increased and roadside warnings performed.
If you have been involved in an accident with an individual that you suspect was impaired by prescription drug use, you should speak with an attorney. If you are in the Los Angeles area, call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule your free consultation.