The news has been filled with information about the flu and The Center for Disease Control agrees that we are seeing an above-average severity in the flu season this year, with the flu season only half over. While the flu carries some serious risks – including the risk of hospitalization and the risk of complications – at least one UK study has also shown that it can cause a car accident risk, too.
According to a research study from PCP in York for Lloyds TSB Insurance, drivers suffering from the flu take ten seconds longer to respond when compared with health drivers. In fact, according to the study, driving with the flu is comparable to driving after having two whiskeys in terms of how much drivers are affected. There is also anecdotal evidence that having the flu can make you more prone to other injuries and accidents.
If you have the flu, you can prevent a personal injury or car accident in Davie or your community by taking a few precautions:
1) Know the symptoms – and their risks. The flu varies from person to person, but generally most patients experience fever, general aches and pains, severe fatigue, and dry cough. If you have these symptoms – especially a fever or severe fatigue – avoid driving. Your symptoms may cause a traffic accident in Davie or your community.
2) Have medication on hand – but read labels carefully. Some over-the-counter flu medications and prescribed medications may have side effects such as drowsiness. When you start a new medication, you may also have an unexpected reaction that can affect your ability to drive.
3) Consider stocking up in case you get sick. If you are ill and don’t have medication or food on hand, you may be tempted to drive to the store to pick up supplies. Unfortunately, your illness can put you at risk of a traffic or pedestrian accident. Keeping your home stocked with basic medication and basic pantry food items can be useful in the event of a sudden illness.
4) Have a friend drive you to the doctor if you need medical attention. If you do need to go somewhere when ill, consider having a family member or friend drive you rather than risk driving yourself.
5) Do not return to normal activities until you are better. Take good care of yourself as you heal from the flu. If your symptoms worsen or don’t seem to be getting better, see a doctor. Do not return to regular activities – including driving – until your flu is gone. If you are driving while tired or feverish, you are putting yourself – and others – at risk. Keep in mind that even taking a walk or wandering around your house can lead to a trip and fall accident if you are ill. If you are tired and shaky on your feet because of the flu, get bed rest.
6) Do not drink alcohol until you feel better. According to the study for Lloyds TSB Insurance, drinking alcohol can amplify some flu symptoms (such as fatigue) and put patients at an even greater risk of car accidents. Drinking alcohol can also put you at risk of other personal injuries and can make the road to recovery longer. Drunk driving accidents in Davie and across Florida are already a problem. Do not add to them. If you drink, do not drive.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Davie or in any South Florida community, you may be able to seek compensation for the costs of your injuries. Your case may be worth more than you think. To get details about your rights and options, contact the Flaxman Law Group today for a free case evaluation.