It’s not just alcohol and illegal drugs that can impair driving – so can legally prescribed medications, taken alone or in combination with each other.  

Almost half of adults 65 and older report using seven or more medications while remaining active drivers, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Benzodiazepines and first-generation antihistamines are known to cause impairing effects, such as blurred vision, confusion, fatigue or lack of coordination. They can increase a driver’s risk for a crash by up to 300 percent.

The research is from AAA’s groundbreaking multiyear LongROAD study. Previous research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that fewer than 18 percent of older drivers report ever receiving a warning from their health care provider about how their prescriptions impact driving safety. 

“Ask your doctor and pharmacist as many questions as necessary to ensure you understand why you need the medications prescribed to you and how they can affect your driving, especially if you are taking multiple medications,” said Jake Nelson, AAA director of traffic safety advocacy and research. “Don’t be afraid to question health care providers. It’s their job to help you. And it may help save your life.” 

Considering the large number of medications used by older drivers, AAA urges seniors and their families to fully understand what doctors are prescribing and potential impairing effects:

• Come prepared: Write down any prescribed or over-the-counter medications you take and bring that list with you to every medical appointment. Don’t forget to include vitamins or supplements. 
• Ask questions: Find out about potential side effects or interactions that could affect your driving. 

To learn more about their medications, drivers can use AAA’s Roadwise Rx. This free online tool helps drivers and their families understand common side effects of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. It also flags interactions between these medications that can impact safety behind the wheel. Print the free list and report, then discuss the confidential results with your doctor or pharmacist to learn how to mitigate possible crash risks. To access all the free resources AAA offers to senior drivers, visit SeniorDriving.AAA.com.