What should you avoid to help stay alert and safe while driving?

Avoiding medication that can cause drowsiness is crucial for maintaining alertness and safety while driving. Drowsy driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, similar to the effects of driving under the influence of alcohol. Some medications, particularly those for allergies, colds, anxiety, or pain, may have side effects that impair judgment, reaction time, and overall alertness. When drivers are aware of how certain medications can impact their ability to drive, they can make informed decisions and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

On the other hand, heavy meals, long hours without breaks, and driving during the night can also contribute to fatigue, but the immediate effects of sedating medications can be more pronounced and occur rapidly. Understanding the role of medication helps drivers to be proactive about their readiness to drive and ensures that they are in the best condition to operate a vehicle safely.