Page 5 - AAA Now! – AAA Northway – Winter 2022

The percentage of drivers who reported driving after using various potentially driver-impairing medications within the past 30 days, United States, July–August 2021
Base: U.S. residents ages 16+ with a driver’s license who reported driving and taking the corresponding medicine (or several medicines) in the past 30 days, weighted to reflect the U.S. population. *Not necessarily at the same time.
Research results found that up to half of drivers who were prescribed and took each type of PDI medication did not report receiving a warning from their medical provider or pharmacist regarding
its possible impacts on driving. But those who did receive a warning were 18% less likely to get behind the wheel after use, highlighting the potential benefit of healthcare providers’ counseling to reduce medication-impaired driving.
“Understandably, it may seem impossible for patients to maintain their independence behind
the wheel and use the medications they need
to stay healthy. It turns out we can achieve both goals, but not without guidance from our doctor
or pharmacist,” said Jake Nelson, AAA’s director of traffic safety advocacy and research. “Our research suggests too few medical professionals provide these warnings or suggest ways patients can navigate this tough challenge.”
Anyone taking PDI medications should discuss with their doctor or pharmacist ways to preserve
safe driving, such as adjusting medication doses, the timing of those doses or alternative medications to treat medical conditions without causing driver impairment.
For drivers, AAA recommends these safety tips to keep in mind:
Don’t Underestimate the Risks of Driving after Using Medications
Over the past three decades, society has realized the dangers associated with drunk driving. According
to the latest AAA Foundation Traffic Safety Culture Index, most drivers (94.5%) consider driving after drinking alcohol very or extremely dangerous. But only 87% feel the same about driving after using potentially impairing medications.
Be Aware of Your Options
With advice from your doctor or pharmacist, you
can successfully treat your medical condition and maintain your ability to drive safely. Options include, but aren’t limited to, timing your doses to avoid times when you need to drive, adjusting how much medication you take or even exploring alternative medications that treat your symptoms without causing impairment.
Advocate for Yourself
Become a better advocate for yourself during
visits to the doctor, when filling a prescription at
the pharmacy or purchasing over-the-counter medications. AAA recommends that consumers be proactive by asking the doctor or pharmacist how the medications could affect driving ability and how to avoid those risks while treating their medical condition. If the medicine is available over the counter, read the warnings, heed them or consult a pharmacist for advice.
HOLIDAY HOURS
HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS
Our offices will observe the following hours during the holiday season:
AAA NORTHWAY OFFICES BE CLOSED:
THANKSGIVING DAY Thursday, Nov 25
AAA MEMBER CAR CARE WILL BE CLOSED:
CHRISTMAS EVE Saturday, Dec 24 - Close at 1pm
Our Emergency Road Service call center will be open, as always, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
AAA.COM | 1-800-AAA-HELP
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Italy
Join AAA & Member Choice Vacations to learn about our upcoming Reflections of Italy Select Vacation
January 25 | 5:30pm 1451 ST HWY 5S AMSTERDAM, NY
REGISTER FOR THIS FREE EVENT AT:
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Italy
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WINTER 2022
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