Review article
https://doi.org/10.31784/zvr.12.1.22
Influence of drug and alcohol consumption on road traffic safety
Erika Gržin
orcid.org/0000-0002-3120-5696
; University of applied sciences of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
*
Barbara Rudić
; University of applied sciences of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
Melika Jagodić
; University of applied sciences of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
The consumption of drugs and alcohol can significantly affect road traffic safety. Medicines, especially those that cause sleepiness, reduce concentration or have side effects such as dizziness, can reduce the ability of the driver to react properly in different traffic situations. Alcohol, on the other hand, has been proven to reduce cognitive functions, motor skills and increase reaction time. Even moderate consumption of alcohol can significantly affect driving ability, and consumption of alcohol above the legal limit is a serious risk for road safety. The drivers who combine drugs and alcohol are exposed to additional risks because the side effects of drugs can be enhanced by alcohol, thus impairing the ability to drive a vehicle. Therefore, it is important for drivers to be aware of the potential side effects of the drugs they are using and to avoid consuming alcohol before driving. Education, preventive campaigns and strict law enforcement are the key elements in reducing the impact of drug and
alcohol consumption on road safety.
Keywords
alcohol; medicines; safety; traffic accidents
Hrčak ID:
317635
URI
Publication date:
18.6.2024.
Visits: 563 *