Why you shouldn’t drive when you’re ill: The hidden dangers of driving sick

Whether it’s the flu, a severe cold, or other illnesses, even mild symptoms can impair focus, reaction times, and overall driving ability. The team at car.co.uk have spoken with various health experts on the potential risks of driving while ill, looking at both physical and legal consequences.

How Illness Affects Your Driving Ability

When you’re unwell, your body is already under stress, and common symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and drowsiness can make driving hazardous. Research shows that being sick can reduce concentration levels and increase the likelihood of delayed reaction times, similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. Medications taken to alleviate symptoms, such as cold and flu remedies, can also contribute to drowsiness and impaired judgment.

Abbas Kanani, pharmacist at Chemist Click offered his insight into the dangers of driving while experiencing cold and flu symptoms.

“Flu symptoms such as fatigue and aches and pains can affect your concentration levels, as well as your reactive skills which could put you at risk of an accident. The NHS advises that you should stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities. You should also be aware of the potential side effects when taking common cold and flu medications. Some people can be at risk of drowsiness and dizziness which can also affect your ability to drive safely. Typically, you should wait until you have had no fever for at least 24 hours and your symptoms are improving before leaving the house.”

Flu and colds aren’t the only illnesses that can pose a risk when driving, Veronika Matutyte from Peaches and Screams UK offered her insight into the other illness drivers should be conscious of.

“Beyond the flu, other illnesses pose risks. Gastrointestinal bugs can cause debilitating symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, forcing drivers into dangerous abrupt stops. These episodes can occur suddenly, making vehicle control nearly impossible. Then there are medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers that can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. I constantly remind my patients to read labels and understand potential side effects before driving. Ignoring these warnings can be disastrous.”

Legal and Safety Concerns

In the UK, driving while unfit due to illness or medication can result in serious legal consequences. While driving whist ill isn’t a crime by itself, If an accident occurs and it is determined that illness played a role, drivers can face penalties, points on their license, or even prosecution for dangerous driving. It’s essential to recognize when it’s safer to stay off the road and seek alternative transport options instead.

Safer Alternatives

If you're feeling too unwell to drive, consider using public transportation or asking a friend or family member for a ride. Employers should also be mindful of encouraging sick employees to avoid driving for work-related tasks, ensuring everyone's safety on the road.

Prioritizing health and road safety go hand in hand. If you're feeling unwell, the safest decision is to stay off the road and rest. By doing so, you're not only protecting yourself but also other road users.

For more information, please visit; https://www.car.co.uk/