Motorists are being urged to exercise caution when taking prescribed medications that can impair their ability to drive safely. Dr. Maire Finn, speaking on RTE Radio, highlighted the potential dangers of driving while on certain medications, as they may cause accidents. Many individuals are unaware that some drugs prescribed by doctors can result in adverse side effects such as blurred vision and hand tremors, making driving hazardous.
These medications are typically prescribed for conditions such as terminal illnesses, depression, and anxiety, but they can be addictive. Some people even resort to self-medicating with drugs obtained from friends or relatives, which can lead to distractions while driving. In some cases, Garda drug tests may misinterpret the effects of these drugs as intoxication.
Dr. Finn emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals about potential side effects and expressed hope that proposed legal changes will address this issue. Motorists are urged to prioritize safety and avoid driving while under the influence of such medications.