Flu sufferers urged to stay off the roads

A warning from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) urges drivers not to put the lives of themselves and others in danger this winter, by getting behind the wheel with a cold or flu.

The organisation is pushing the message after studies revealed a simple cold or flu bout could result in concentration levels dropping up to 50% - more than enough to significantly slow reaction times and cause a very serious accident.

When one considers the implications of these findings alongside the common problems associated with driving in winter weather, it is easy to see why drivers are being told to stay safe. What’s more, the effect of flu and cold medication can also cause drowsiness, meaning it’s difficult to know what to do for the best if you’re feeling rundown.

A spokesman for IAM had this to say:

‘Drivers can travel up to 50ft with their eyes closed during a sneeze, meaning they can either temporarily lose control of their car or be involved in a serious accident; where you not only risk your own life but the lives of other road users.

‘This is why it’s important to think about whether you need to ride or drive at all when suffering from a cold or flu. If you are stopped by the police after taking a cold remedy or driving when unfit to do so you could find yourself charged, disqualified or serving a lengthy prison sentence.’

Evidence showing flu and cold symptoms can have serious consequences when it comes to driving has come from insurance company Young Marmalade, which uses a black box GPS tracker to measure driving ability under various conditions. Their research has shown that drivers suffering from flu were tested under controlled conditions in terms of reaction times and hand-eye coordination.

Meanwhile, a survey conducted by the AA has discovered 1 in 5 drivers admit to being on the roads when they are unfit to drive due to cold and flu symptoms.

David Williams of GEM Motoring Assist CEO, a dedication road safety organisation, said:

‘Too many motorists fail to heed the warnings on certain medication packets and can find themselves becoming drowsy and dangerously tired at the wheel. Driving under the influence of drugs (even those prescribed by a doctor) is a serious criminal offence and can be dealt with in the same way as a drink driving conviction.’

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