## crash fact 

Is it worth it to drink and drive? 

• You or your passengers could be injured or killed in a crash. 

• You may spend time in jail. 

• You could lose your licence. 

• You may have to pay stiff fines. 

• Your insurance may not pay for any injuries or damage you cause. 

## driving tip 

If you are feeling impaired after taking a drug or medication, don’t drive — let someone else do the driving until the effect has worn off. 

## driving tip 

Always read the label of any medication you are taking to see if it can affect driving. If you are taking more than one medication, ask your pharmacist or doctor about their combined effects on driving. 

To get home safely: 

• Learn about the effects of drugs and alcohol. Accurate information allows you to make informed decisions. 

• Refuse to ride with drivers who may be impaired. Ask to be let out of the car if necessary. 

• Take a stand — don’t let someone who may be impaired drive. 

• Choose a designated driver before going out. 

• Keep money aside for a bus or taxi. 

• Call a friend. 

## Facts about drugs 

## Drugs and driving 

Drugs and medications can impair driving. If you are taking medications or drugs, you need to know how they can affect your ability to drive safely. 

Drugs affect different people differently. If there is any doubt about safety, leave the driving to someone else. 

## Medications 

Over-the-counter medicines for allergies, coughs, colds and nausea can cause: 

• drowsiness 

• inattentiveness. 

Prescriptions including sedatives, tranquilizers, painkillers and some antidepressants can affect: 

• alertness 

• concentration 

• reaction time. 

These effects can continue for many hours after the medicine is taken. 

If your doctor or pharmacist cautions you that a medication is likely to interfere with driving safety, pay attention. If you are feeling impaired after taking a medication, don’t drive — let someone else do the driving until the effect has worn off. 

## Strategies: protecting yourself from impaired drivers 

