H is for...
H is for... Health!
How does your health link in with your driving?
Your health and driving is so important. If your health deteriorates then you may be unsafe to drive and it’s important for us to recognise this. There are many implications and consequences, and we’ll have a look at these in this blog.
Short term health conditions
We'll look at long term health conditions further below, but it's important to note that short term health conditions can play a big part in our driving.
Some short term health conditions could include;
- A simple cold or the flu - could reduce your concentration, awareness, and alertness
- A neck/shoulder/back injury - making it difficult to turn your head, make effective observations, and check your blind spots
- Being tired - this is often underestimated, and can have fatal consequences whilst driving. If you feel sleepy, you should consider not driving at all. If you're already driving, pull over to get some rest
- Breaking your arm - although you may not feel as though it would restrict your driving, it could affect your ability to control your vehicle in an emergency, and your insurance is unlikely to cover you to drive whilst in a cast. Also, any painkillers you may be on, may affect your ability to drive safely
- Infections - this could be an ear, chest, bladder infection etc. Infections can make you feel drowsy and reduce your concentration. Antibiotics could also make you feel drowsy
- Alcohol - it's important to remember that drinking the night before could still mean you're over the limit the next morning