Allergy Medications Linked to Drowsy Driving Accidents

April 24, 2013

Each year, a significant number of Buffalo Car Accidents are the result of drowsy driving. The problem is not only arising in western New York, but across the entire nation as well. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that more than four percent of adult drivers admit to falling asleep behind the wheel in the past 30 days.

With spring right around the corner and the consumption of sleep inducing allergy medications expected to rise during that time, the chances of drowsy driving car accidents is likely to increase as well. Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine shows that driving after taking the common antihistamine, diphenhydramine, can be as dangerous as attempting to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

These risks leave many citizens curious as to how they can ensure their medications are safe to take before driving. An article from The Buffalo News explained how discussing the side effects of a prescribed medication with a physician or pharmacist can prove beneficial in determining if a medication is safe. However, most drugs will carry a warning label if a consumer should not operate a vehicle after taking it.

The Buffalo Personal Injury Lawyers with William Mattar Law Firm would also suggest taking only non-drowsy formulas of allergy medications to help reduce the risk of accidents.