A new study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that larger number people are “driving drugged”, meaning they are operating motor vehicles under the influence of prescription drugs.

According to this recent post in the Join Together blog, drivers aged 50 and up are involved in prescription drug related traffic accidents. In fact, in 2010, 1 in 5 adults admit to mixing prescription drugs and other drugs while driving, up from 1 in 8 in 1993.

It can be harrowing enough, knowing about all the statistics surrounding drunk driving on our roads. The idea that there is an increasing number of people drugged driving is downright terrifying.  We recognize prescription drugs as necessary components of modern medicine, but we must also encourage safe and responsible decision-making as well. Pay close attention to warning labels on your prescription drugs and heed the advice. Let’s keep our roads safe!