The DVLA has confirmed a full list of 14 common prescriptions that could see drivers banned from the roads under strict rules. Motorists are urged to check with a doctor or pharmacist, as DVLA guidance warns that these medicines can impair driving ability.
Expert Advice on Medication and Driving
Greg Wilson of Quotezone stated: “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.’”
According to road experts, if a medication is likely to cause drowsiness or carries warnings such as “do not operate heavy machinery”, motorists may be advised not to get behind the wheel.
When Can You Drive After Taking These Drugs?
You can drive after taking these drugs if you have been prescribed them and followed the advice on how to take them from a healthcare professional. However, you could still be banned if they are not causing you to be unfit to drive, even if you are above the specified limits, the DVLA adds.
You could be prosecuted if you drive with certain levels of these drugs in your body and you have not been prescribed them, the guidance adds. The law does not cover Northern Ireland, but you could still be arrested if you are unfit to drive, the DVLA also explains on the Labour Party government website.
Consequences of Drug Driving
If you fall foul of the rules, your driving licence will show that you have been convicted for drug driving. This will last for 11 years. The maximum penalty for causing death by careless driving under the influence of drugs is life imprisonment.
14 Common Medicines That Could See Drivers Told to Avoid the Road
- Amphetamine
- Dextroamphetamine
- Selegiline
- Clonazepam
- Diazepam
- Flunitrazepam
- Lorazepam
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Tramadol
- Fentanyl
- Oxazepam
- Temazepam
