News Release

January 15, 2012

DUC - Driving under influence of cold & DUF - Driving under influence of flu, may be as dangerous as DUI or drunk driving, per UK study, San Diego criminal defense attorneys are told.

United Kingdom drivers are being warned that they could be less capable of driving than they think when they are under the influence of a heavy cold or flu. According to a recent study there was evidence that revealed a driver is impaired during a bad cold or flu as much as if they were heavily drinking prior to getting behind the wheel. Drivers were found to be impaired by over 50 per cent or the equivalent of drinking more than four double whiskies. The driver’s ability to react is impaired and they are less aware of other drivers on the road. They also are in danger of massive distraction should they have a sneezing or coughing fit while driving.

Mark Dolphin, a winter driving expert said, “You shouldn’t drive if you are not feeling well. If you really must go out, get someone else to take you.”

The study warning UK drivers was carried out by Cardiff University’s Common Cold Unit. Many drivers are totally unaware of their inability to properly handle themselves while behind the wheel if they are suffering from a major cold or flu. They should however realize that there can be even more of an impairment should the driver be taking certain kinds of cold medication. Many cold medications do in fact declare that the driver should be cautious when driving or avoid driving altogether, however most drivers do not consider the severity of the warning.

Drivers should avoid endangering themselves as well as others on the road by staying off the road during a bad cold or flu. UK drivers should take the warning to heart and stay safe while they recover, San Diego DUI lawyers are told.