Medication and driving

Some medication can affect the ability to drive.

Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 does not differentiate between illegal or prescribed drugs, as it's the effect they have upon your ability to drive which is the concern. This means that anyone found driving whilst unfit, due to any drug, could be prosecuted.

People whose driving ability may be impaired through their illness or prescribed medication should inform their insurance company. Failure to do so is considered to be 'withholding a material fact' and may make the insurance policy void.

Many psychotropic drugs can impair alertness, concentration and driving performance. It is important to stop driving during this time if adversely affected.

For more detailed information on medication and driving, please see our Driving & mental illness factsheet (198 kb)