Driving in Sarasota and Prescription Medications
There are many reasons why individuals have prescriptions for certain medications. An individual may use a prescription to relieve pain, lower their blood pressure, or cure an infection, for example. While it is safe for an individual taking prescription drugs to drive in many circumstances, there are times when an individual is not able to do so safely. With one report stating over 65% of U.S. adults having prescriptions, being aware of risks is essential to keeping roads safe, in Sarasota, throughout Florida and the rest of the country.
According to Florida law, an individual is illegally operating a vehicle if they are under the influence and are too impaired to drive, including if this is the result of a prescription. These laws are important as impaired drivers can cause vehicular accidents, injuries, and fatalities. If you were involved in a car wreck with an impaired driver, talk to a Sarasota car accident lawyer about your options.
Prescription Medications May Have Side Effects
Medications that are taken in the wrong doses or mixed with other drugs can result in troubling side effects. If you or someone you care about has a prescription, talk to your doctor and your pharmacist about possible side effects. If there are side effects, know what the time periods are as well. For instance, some drug side effects last a couple of hours, others can extend into another day. It is unsafe to operate a vehicle if any of the following side effects are present:
- Inability to see clearly or experiencing blurred vision
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Slowed ability to react or judge distances
- Inability to focus
- Feelings of illness or nausea
Individuals have reported disorientation after ingesting pain relievers containing codeine or morphine and when antihistamines are taken, drowsiness can follow.
Regular Communication with Healthcare Providers
If you are taking prescription medication, it can be helpful to be in communication with your doctor about any changes, such as if you begin to take an over the counter medication or are prescribed another medication by another healthcare professional. Checking in about possible drug interactions is important, and with knowledge you can take the step needed to avoid dangerous side effects.
Also, share any issues you are already experiencing with your healthcare team. For example, if you feel surprisingly fatigued, avoid driving and let your doctor know. There may be a dosage adjustment needed or a change in your prescription. Do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle until you feel you are coordinated and focused.
Of course, even when all precautions are taken, accidents still happen. If you were hurt in an accident, connect with a Sarasota car accident lawyer to obtain advice on how to secure a full and fair compensation package.
Did you sustain injuries after a Florida crash involving a drugged driver? Talk to the experienced Sarasota attorneys at Hale Law. Some crashes lead to complex insurance negotiations. Our experienced attorneys will work to secure the maximum compensation amount. Because our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, there are no fees or costs if we are unable to recover compensation. For a free consultation, call at 941-735-4529.
