Drugs Don’t Need To Be Illegal To Be Harmful To Louisiana Drivers

A great many people in Louisiana take prescription and over-the-counter drugs to heal or alleviate pain and discomfort. People suffering from chronic illness take medications daily, sometimes in large doses, while others take them occasionally to fight a temporary illness.

Most of these drugs have side effects, which wouldn't be a problem if some of these side effects did not seriously impair the ability to drive. Many serious car accidents in Louisiana are caused by drivers who are not reacting well to medications. Whether side effects are harmless or treacherous depends on:

• The type of medication;
• The health and strength of the patient;
• The dosage taken;
• The combination with other drugs and alcohol.

What drugs could be dangerous for Louisiana drivers?

• Tranquilizers, sedatives and sleeping pills slow down the central nervous system and cause drowsiness, diminished reaction time and reduced ability to concentrate;
• Some stimulating drugs make you feel alert and confident. This can be a serious problem if you become a reckless driver as a result;
• Common prescription drugs treating allergies, cholesterol, ulcers, depression, pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, and insomnia cause drowsiness and affect vision, reaction time and coordination;
• Antihistamines (taken to combat allergies) slow down reaction time and impair coordination;
• A 10 mg. dose of Valium may cause greater impairment than a blood alcohol content of 0.1 percent (above the legal limit);
• Sedating antidepressants can have the same effect as being drunk;
• Over-the-counter drugs like cough and cold pills, decongestants, pain relievers, diuretics and pills to prevent nausea or motion sickness may cause drowsiness, dizziness and slower reflexes.

What should Louisiana drivers do: stop driving or stop taking pills?

Most people need to use their car as much as they need to take their medication. The point is that drivers should be aware of the possibly dangerous side effects of medication, and:

• Read the description of the side effects on the medication guide;
• Give their body time to adjust, and avoid driving right after having taken the drugs;
• Talk to their doctor about the combination of driving and taking drugs.

The New Orleans car accident attorneys of the Young Firm take your safety seriously. If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, contact us for a FREE discussion of your case.