If you are taking prescription drugs, should you get behind the wheel of a car?
While most prescription medicines will not affect your driving ability, some prescription and over-the-counter medicines have side effects that may make it unsafe to drive.
These side effects include:
- sleepiness/drowsiness
- slow reaction time
- blurred vision
- dizziness
- fainting
- inability to focus or pay attention
- nausea
- excitability
If you are experiencing any of these side effects, you should stay off the road.
Medications That Require Caution
Knowing how your prescription and over-the-counter medications will potentially affect your ability to drive is very important. If you are getting behind the wheel of a vehicle, you have a duty to other drivers and passengers to engage in safe driving.
Some common medications that could make it dangerous to drive include:
- sleep aids
- muscle relaxants
- pain medications
- anxiety drugs
- antidepressants
- allergy medications
- cold remedies
- diet pills
To be safe, you should ensure that you always read the warning labels, discuss your medications with your doctor, inform your doctor of any non-prescription drugs that you take, and refrain from driving if your feel sleepy or disoriented.
Nevada State Laws Regarding Drugged Driving
Driving under the influence of prescription drugs isn’t just dangerous, it is also illegal. In the State of Nevada, driving under the influence of prescription medication is treated the same as driving under the influence of alcohol.
The penalties for DUI of prescription drugs include fines, classes, and driver’s license revocation. See NRS Chapter 484C – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or a Prohibited Substance for more information.
Experienced Las Vegas Personal Injury Lawyers
If you have been in a car accident with someone who you believe was under the influence of drugs or the influence of alcohol, you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you protect your rights.
For a free legal consultation, call (702) 857-6000
If you are looking for a law firm with experienced car accident attorneys, contact Anthem Injury Lawyers today. Our phone number is (702) 857-6000. We offer Free Consultations.
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