Prescription medications help millions of people manage their health issues every day. But some of these same medications could make driving much riskier, even when taken exactly as prescribed. Unfortunately, many drivers never think about this risk until it is too late and are involved in a car accident.

What Makes Prescription Drugs Risky When You Are Driving?

Prescription drugs can make you sleepy, slow your reaction time, or even blur your vision. You might not notice these side effects, but they can make it much harder to drive safely, all the same. Even if you feel awake, your medication can still impair your reflexes and decision-making.

Other meds can cloud your thinking, make it harder to concentrate, and affect your ability to react quickly to what is happening on the road. Some can also mess with your coordination, making it tough to steer, stay in your lane, or judge distances.

Which Prescription Medications Are the Most Concerning for Drivers?

Here are some of the medications most well-known for causing issues for drivers:

• Benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium), used for anxiety or sleep, can make you drowsy and slow your reactions.
• Opioid painkillers can help with pain, but they can also make you sleepy and slow down your thinking and movement.
• Antidepressants sometimes cause dizziness or blurred vision.
• Sleep medications (like Ambien) help you rest, but their effects can last into the next day, leaving you less alert than you think.

How Often Do Prescription Drugs Play a Role in Car Accidents?

According to the data, a significant number of people involved in car crashes were taking prescription medications at the time. Some experts believe prescription drug impairment now causes more accidents than alcohol, and the risk of complications goes up as you get older, especially if you need to take more than one prescription at a time. 

Is It Legal to Drive While Taking Prescription Medication?

Just because you have a prescription, it does not mean that the law allows you to drive while under the influence of medication. In fact, South Carolina law prohibits you from driving with any substance in your system—including prescription drugs—that affects your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

The state can charge you with DUI if your medication impairs your ability to drive and causes a crash, even if you take it exactly as your doctor ordered. Your consequences could include fines, losing your license, or even jail time if you cause an accident. Plus, you could bear responsibility for any injuries or damage you cause.

How Can You Stay Safe on the Road?

• Always read the warning labels on your medications and ask your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects that could affect your driving.
• Try new medications when you do not have to drive so you can see how they affect you.
• Never mix your medication with alcohol.
• Plan ahead for rides if you know your medication might make you drowsy or less alert.
• Listen to your body—if you feel off, do not get behind the wheel.

Protect Your Rights After a Medication-Induced Car Accident With the Mt. Pleasant Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC

If you or someone you love gets into a crash because of the influence of prescription medication, trust the Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC to help you understand your options. Since 2002, we have helped people throughout South Carolina stand up for their rights after serious accidents. For a free consultation, call us today at 843-727-6500 or contact us online. With office locations in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina, we gladly serve clients throughout South Carolina.