Are cold and flu remedies leaving you vulnerable behind the wheel?

Driving or riding with a heavy cold can significantly affect your concentration and slow down your reaction time by up to 50%. So, the best solution is to avoid driving or riding at all if you’re feeling very unwell. 

Some over-the-counter medicines contain ingredients that can make you feel extremely drowsy, and some can even blur your vision. If you’re taking any medicine, even shop-bought ones, check the instructions and possible side effects thoroughly before you head out on the road.

At 30mph you travel 13 metres every second. If your cold or illness causes you to sneeze while you’re driving or riding, this means that you’ll be travelling for a period with your eyes closed. This split-second loss of attention could result in you temporarily losing of control of your vehicle, so it's best to avoid driving or riding if you’re sneezing often.

It’s also best to discuss any prescription medications you are taking and any potential side effects with your doctor or pharmacist. Always carefully read the information leaflet that comes with your medication, and do not drive or ride if you are unsure. Modern roadside drug tests can detect some opiates, so make sure you take your medication as prescribed and follow your doctor's advice.

With any illness you should wait until you’re feeling much better before you get back behind the wheel or on your bike, and if you wouldn’t advise someone you care about to drive or ride when they’re feeling under the weather, you shouldn’t either.