The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) has issued a warning to drivers about certain medications that could impair driving ability. Some prescription drugs, including opioid painkillers, tranquilisers, and some antidepressants, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. If these effects impact driving, motorists may be advised to avoid getting behind the wheel.
Which Medications Can Affect Driving?
According to Greg Wilson, founder of car insurance firm Quotezone, drivers who take strong medications are often advised not to drive. These include:
- Opioid painkillers (e.g., codeine, morphine)
- Tranquilisers (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam)
- Certain antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, fluoxetine)
- Any medication that causes drowsiness or has warnings like “do not operate heavy machinery”
Some drivers might not be aware of the full list of over 110 medical conditions that can affect driving, as recognised by the DVLA. In some cases, these conditions can lead to higher insurance premiums or even licence revocation.
What Happens If Police Suspect You Are Driving Under the Influence?
If police suspect a driver is impaired due to medication or drugs, they can pull them over and conduct a “field impairment assessment.” This test may include:
- Walking in a straight line
- Checking coordination and balance
- Testing reaction times
Police can also use a roadside drug test kit to check for substances like cannabis and cocaine. If a driver is deemed unfit to drive, they will be arrested and required to take a blood or urine test at a police station.
Understanding the Law on Driving with Medications
Legal vs. Illegal Drug Use
It is illegal in England, Scotland, and Wales to drive if:
You have certain legal medications in your system, but they impair your driving.
You have specified illegal drugs in your blood above the legal limit, unless prescribed by a doctor.
Possible Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Medications
If found guilty of driving under the influence of drugs (including prescription medications), you could face:
- A criminal record
- A driving ban
- Fines or even imprisonment in serious cases
How to Stay Safe and Avoid Penalties
To avoid legal trouble and ensure road safety, motorists should:
Check medication labels for warnings about drowsiness or impaired coordination.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure whether a prescribed medication affects driving.
Avoid driving if feeling drowsy, dizzy, or unable to focus after taking medication.
Carry a prescription if taking strong medication legally, in case police request proof.
Driving under the influence of prescription medication can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. The DVLA advises drivers to be aware of how medications affect them and follow guidance to avoid serious consequences. If in doubt, it’s always best to speak to a healthcare professional before driving.
