Driving requires your full attention at all times to avoid an accident. Distractions or impairment can lead to disastrous consequences. Driving while sick can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. The common cold can impair the ability to drive by up to 50 percent. Illnesses and medications can produce the same effects as drunk driving, such as:
In fact, these dangers of driving while sick prompted the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to prohibit commercial truck drivers from operating during illness, and trucking companies are forbidden from requiring or permitting their drivers to operate when sick.
While there are no regulations prohibiting non-commercial drivers from operating a vehicle while sick, you can be found negligent if you cause an accident while ill and also face potential fines.
Several prescribed and over-the-counter medications and certain medical conditions can make getting behind the wheel extremely dangerous. Avoid driving if you are suffering from:
According to the National Safety Council, you should not drive if you are experiencing symptoms that could lead to distracted driving. Many symptoms or actions can be distracting, such as:
Despite your own careful driving, accidents can still happen if you encounter an impaired driver. If you are involved in an accident, you should:
Driving while experiencing symptoms of illness can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. If you have been injured by a negligent driver, you may be eligible to file a claim against them. A Washington DC car wreck lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can help. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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