According to a car insurance provider, motorists who take to the wheel while suffering from colds are placing themselves at a heightened risk of having accidents.
The insurers carried out a study with Halfords and discovered that the common cold can impair a person's driving ability to a similar extent as consuming a large quantity of alcohol.
Furthermore, drivers who have taken cold and flu medicines may experience side effects such as dizziness, headaches and fatigue.
A young persons car insurance expert said, "A heavy cold can impair a driver's mood, concentration and judgement."
The general consensus is that flu-ridden drivers should only take to the roads when they are absolutely sure that the symptoms have disappeared.
It is also worth questioning a GP or pharmacist about the effects of medication.
A spokesperson for Halfords commented, "You shouldn't drive if you are not feeling well. The best place to be when you have flu or a heavy cold is at home, but if you really must go out, get someone else to take you and avoid driving."
Individuals with car insurance for young people have been reminded that their policies may not cover them against accidents which happen while they are on prescription drugs.