Many motorists may be suffering side effects of medication while driving without realising.

Motorists across the UK should take heed of warning labels on prescription medications or face the prospect of falling foul of the law.

New research carried out by Confused.com has highlighted the lack of understanding among a significant proportion of UK road users regarding the impact that these medicines can have on an individual’s ability to drive safely.

According to the company’s findings, 13 per cent of drivers who take cold or flu medications suffer side effects while at the wheel of a vehicle, including symptoms of drowsiness and a lack of concentration.

Furthermore, two-thirds (67 per cent) of respondents were unaware that some forms of medication can contain alcohol. Moreover, 64 per cent of drivers admitted to having driven while taking over-the-counter medication.

Overall, 33 per cent of respondents admitted to not reading the accompanying documentation when taking over-the-counter medicines to see if there are any potential side effects they should be aware of.

Indeed, in the last three years, police forces across the country have prosecuted more than 2,600 motorists who were driving under the influence of legal and illegal drugs – including codeine, diazepam and sleeping pills.

Gemma Stanbury, head of car insurance at Confused.com, said: “Whilst most people understand the dangers of drinking and driving, relatively few understand that driving, mixed with some over-the-counter cold remedies could pose just as great a hazard.”

She added at this time of year there are many Brits who take medication for illnesses like cold and flu. However, what a significant proportion of people do not realise is that these medicines could not only lead to them being dangerous drivers, but could also land them in court.

“If unsure motorists should ask the pharmacist or err on the side of caution and don’t drive, as road safety and the safety of others should be a top priority for any driver,” Ms Stanbury concluded.

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