We write about drunk driving often because it is such a serious issue in south Florida and all across the country. Reuters reported that “one in five drivers in a random survey had taken prescription drugs that could impair their driving ability, and most were on the road despite having been warned about the risks, a U.S. study found.”
These are not necessarily “narcotics” but could be normal medicines that people take for any number of routine or serious illnesses that may have dramatic side-effects and cause impairment to a driver’s ability to maneuver a motor vehicle.
“Among those who used sedatives or narcotics, 85% said they received a warning from their healthcare provider or the medication label about possible impairment. However, just 63% of drivers using antidepressants and 58% of those using stimulants reported receiving warnings about their risk.”
The study found that many patients did receive a warning, but chose to drive anyway. Others said they never received any warning. It’s very important to read the labels and accompanying instructions every time you pick up a prescription. Better, take a moment to discuss the medicine with your pharmacist. Pretty much every time you are checking out at the pharmacy, someone will ask you “do you have any questions?” Don’t rush off….say yes! And make sure you are 100% clear on what you are putting into your body.
There is more in the news about robots taking on more duties in pharmacies, and this is concerning because already patients don’t usually have the time to spend actually conversing with their local pharmacist.
Anyone can make a mistake, including physicians and pharmacists. If you feel that you have been harmed by a prescription drug that was prescribed or dispensed improperly, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages, pain, and suffering. Call us at 954-356-0006 and we’ll discuss your situation confidentially.
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