Winter is now officially here and freezing temperatures and cold, wet weather means the likelihood that individuals will come down with ailments like a cold or flu has now increased.

To combat the symptoms of these conditions, many people will likely resort to over-the-counter medications in the coming months, but motorists who are feeling ill need to remember the dangers they could face by failing to fully understand the side-effects of these treatments.

As a result, chief executive of GEM Motoring Assist David Williams has urged all drivers to be wary of issues like drowsiness or a lack of concentration after taking these medicines.

These side-effects can have a considerable impact on a person's ability to drive safely, placing both themselves and other road users at risk.

"You may not be aware that your driving can be compromised by medicinal drugs. Therefore you could be breaking the law without realising," Mr Williams commented.

"So it's very important to read labels and seek advice from healthcare professionals before driving. If you face a risk that your driving may be impaired, then either don't drive or ask for a medicine that won't cause drowsy side-effects."

A new leaflet has been published by GEM – Don't Motor on Meds – that aims to give more information to vehicle operators on the dangers of driving after taking medication and it can now be found on the body's website.

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This story was posted by Daniel Crosby, Assistant Marketing Executive at the Fuel Card Group.