DVLA chiefs can stop motorists from getting behind the wheel if they are taking common medication.
DVLA officials may tell drivers to “avoid driving” if they take any of these medicines, according to leading motoring experts.
Greg Wilson, founder of car insurance experts Quotezone.co.uk,
It may be obvious to many that getting behind the wheel on opioid painkillers and tranquillisers is not a good idea.
But, some may be unaware that travelling under the influence of “certain antidepressants” could put road users’ safety under threat.
There are concerns that some medications cause “drowsiness” which may affect individuals’ judgment behind the wheel.
According to experts, the DVLA has an extensive list of over 110 conditions that can affect driving meaning a wide range of illnesses could cause an issue.
Greg said: “If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving.
“Opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and certain antidepressants are examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say ‘do not operate heavy machinery.”
Antidepressants increase the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain which can help regulate mood and emotion.
Motorists should not get behind the wheel under certain medication (Image: Getty)
Some tablets may make road users drowsy (Image: Getty)
However, boosting brain chemicals can make individuals feel drowsy and are likely to impact road users’ reaction times.
Motorists new to the tablets should check with their doctor and read the patient informational label that comes with the medication.
But, the DVLA and car insurance companies should be informed of any ongoing issues as soon as possible.
Experts at the NHS have also warned antidepressant tablets could backfire on road users.
They commented: “Some antidepressants can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision, particularly when you first start taking them. If you do experience these problems, you should not drive or use tools and machinery.”
The DVLA has the authority to revoke driving licences if they consider road users to be a danger behind the wheel.
In some cases, motorists with insignificant illnesses will be able to keep their freedoms as long as a condition is considered not to impair their abilities.
Failure to report conditions to the DVLA could see road users slapped with heavy four-figure fines.
GOV.UK added: “You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result.”
