Can Prescription Medications Increase the Risks of Car Accidents?
July 22, 2015
In a Car Accident on Medications
It is a known fact that certain over-the-counter drugs should be avoided when operating a vehicle. Common examples include cough and cold medications that cause drowsiness, muscle relaxers, and sleeping pills. However, new studies report that certain, less-obvious prescription medications have also been contributing to a higher risk of auto accidents.
The group of drugs under the benzodiazepine category are extremely common in treating insomnia, anxiety, and many other conditions. These medications are widely prescribed across the country, and investigation of their impact on auto accidents is leading to conversations similar to those about driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Medicated drivers taking certain psychotropic prescriptions may be held liable for resulting injuries or fatalities.
Research
Due to the severity of risk, the subject of driving under the influence of certain medications is being thoroughly investigated across the globe. A recent study by McGill University investigated approximately 225,000 people between the ages of 67 and 84. The research revealed that individuals who were prescribed benzodiazepines experienced 45 percent more car accidents than those who were not taking them. In Taiwan, researchers conducted a similar comparison study. In order to do so, 31,000 people with no history of car accidents were paralleled with 5,200 people involved in serious car accidents. Concurring with the McGill study, the study indicated that the latter had a higher likelihood of taking psychotropic drugs (the umbrella category that benzodiazepines fall under).
What are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines are a class of controlled substance affecting the central nervous system. First approved by the FDA in the 1960s, the most well-known is diazepam (Valium). Other familiar brand names include Xanax, Klonopin, and Ativan. A highly addictive category of drug, they are often used for:
- Anti-anxiety
- Sleep
- Treatment of pain disorders
- Treatment and prevention of seizures
- Muscle spasms or pain
- Anesthesia prep
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Side effects are determined by the specific type of benzodiazepine. Extended use of the medication for insomnia can result in “next day drowsiness” and “hangover effect.” Some may suffer from cognitive dysfunction with long-term use, including anterograde amnesia. These types of side effects are extremely dangerous when behind the wheel. Anyone prescribed these drugs should understand the possible side effects and make responsible choices.
Senior Citizens
Senior citizens may already have slower reflexes and poor eyesight when driving. Adding certain medications into the mix may create an even higher risk among the elderly. Long-lasting benzodiazepines can seriously impair an older patient. As liver function may be lessened or damaged in elderly individuals, the drug remains in their systems longer. This can result in dangerous symptoms, such as dizziness and unsteady coordination. It may also cause confusion. All of the mentioned side effects increase the risk of a serious accident when operating a vehicle.
Let Jodat Law Group Help
A car accident on medications can take a profoundly physical and emotional toll on a victim’s life. Receiving the compensation our clients deserve to get back on their feet is our highest priority at Jodat Law Group. Our clients deserve compassionate, knowledgeable, and skilled representation. Attorney and founder Gary Jodat has been serving the Sarasota community since 1994 and was named one of the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” in Florida. He understands the financial and emotional stress from medical bills and lost wages that so often accompany a motor vehicle accident. Contact us today for a free consultation on your case.