The Impact of Medications on Traffic Safety: Attitudes and Knowledge of Young Traffic Participants

Every year, road traffic accidents claim the lives of 1.2 million people worldwide, while 20 to 50 million individuals sustain injuries, with young road users representing the largest proportion of fatalities and injuries. Poor psychophysical condition of drivers, including driving under the influence of alcohol and/or medications that impair psychophysical abilities, ranks third among the causes of fatal traffic accidents, accounting for 8.8%. The aim of this study was to examine the attitudes and knowledge levels of young road users regarding the recognition of warning symbols on medicine packaging. The results showed that the majority of drivers and other road users are insufficiently familiar with the meaning of these symbols, highlighting a critical need for additional education and public awareness campaigns. Raising awareness about the impact of medications on psychophysical abilities is essential for improving road safety and reducing the number of traffic accidents.