You've heard "Don't Drink and Drive" but have you heard about . . .

Okay for years now, we have heard about "Don't Drink and Drive". This is a very important lesson in preventing accidents while intoxicated by alcohol. But did you know that almost 1/5 of fatally injured drivers tested in 2009 were under the influence  of a drug whether legal or illegal. Now consider that almost half of Americans are taking at least one prescription drug according to Health 2004, driving while drugged is an important issue. This is not to encourage you not to take your medications but to alert you that some prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can impair your judgment, perception, and motor skills. Medications that have the possibility of making you sleepy are top of the list to watch out for. Different prescriptions that you should NOT drive while under the influence are pain medications such as Percocet and Vicodin, anti-anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium, and the anti-histamine Benadryl. Pay attention to the warnings on over-the-counter boxes and your prescription labels-anything that states do not operate heavy machinery can impair your driving. More attention needs to be brought Drugged Driving. Law enforcement officers in most states are trained in recognizing drug intoxication. Protect yourself and other drivers by NOT Driving after Drinking and while Texting and Drugged.