The dangers of driving under the influence of influenza

Published on Friday 30 January 2009 21:21

DRIVING while suffering from a cold is the equivalent of downing a double whisky before getting behind the wheel, a new study has found.

The impairment of driving under the influence of a cold or flu is 11 per cent slower reaction times and hazard perception.

The new study, commissioned by Lloyds TSB Insurance, put drivers with a variety of conditions – including PMT, stress, and headaches – through an approved hazard simulator test. Those suffering from colds and flu came off worst, with reaction times and alertness slashed compared with a healthy driver.

One in ten road accidents in 2008 can be attributed to driver flu – landing the nation with a 350 million bill, according to the motor insurance provider.

However, public awareness of the problem is low, with more than a third of motorists admitting that they have driven while suffering from cold or flu.

Driving with headache, stress or PMT resulted in a score 4 per cent below the control group.

Dr Dawn Harper, supporting the campaign, said: "Safe driving requires concentration and good reactions, both of which are significantly reduced, even by just a mild cold.

"I would advise drivers suffering from these conditions to avoid getting behind the wheel until they are better."