Driving while being unwell: How safe is it?

If you're alone & feel uneasy, pull over and take a 30-45 minute break. Take your meds, hydrate yourself & then only continue.

BHPian joelinf recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Dear BHPians: Driving means a lot for us. What if we have a fever or migraine during driving? What precautions are to be followed for such minor illnesses? Should we stop driving till we get normal or is it ok to drive with some moderate uneasiness? Can't find a relevant thread.

Here's what BHPian Geo_Ipe had to say on the matter:

Yes you need to STOP driving if you are physically unwell. Something which you may consider as minor or moderate, like a fever or a headache will tire you out and can cause your reflexes to slow.

I do get migraine attacks and I always carry my headache meds in the car. A migraine doesn't attack suddenly - you'll know when it's starting. The key is to take the pain killer early and not allowing it to blow up into a full on attack. I make sure I'm well hydrated, even though it means more frequent bio breaks and wear sunglasses as glare is a trigger factor for me.

If you're alone & feel uneasy, pull over and take a 30-45 minute break. Take your meds, hydrate yourself & then only continue. If you have someone else to share the wheel with, do not hesitate to ask them to take the wheel - no shame in doing so.

Yes, driving does mean a lot to all of us - provided it is done SAFELY!

Here's what BHPian supermax had to say on the matter:

In Sweden, driving when ill or when fatigued, or sleep deprived is treated exactly as drunk driving; with a stiff fine and impounded license. Minor cold, throat pain etc should be okay, but a severe headache or even a very persistent cough is not good to drive with.

Here's what BHPian anjan_c2007 had to say on the matter:

We as adults should be wise enough to adjudge as to whether we are physically fit at the moment to drive the distance involved.

If the answer is "yes" can go ahead. If "no" we must decide not to drive but either take help from a driver, friend or else engage an aggregator's cab.

It is always advisable to drive a four wheeler even if we feel a wee bit unwell. Its less strenous than driving a two wheeler.Always avoid driving a two wheeler with even a minor health setback.

Here's what BHPian rajeev_sulu had to say on the matter:

Any condition which renders you less than 100%, warrants that you don't drive. However, situations may arise where you may have to drive with minor conditions. All you need to do is be xtra careful. Most importantly, avoid driving after taking medication for cold etc. Antihistamines make you drowsy.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.