Hay fever allergy reported as cause of accidents in the UK

68% of UK drivers said their hay fever has impacted their driving, and 17% said they were caught in an accident or near miss, research reveals. Louise Thomas, Confused.com Motor Insurance expert helps drivers understand the impact of medication on drug driving laws.

For many Brits, hay fever is a sign of the beginning of sunny weather; although a less welcome side effect, sure. But it's also 1 that could be putting motorists at risk of an accident, new research reveals.

According to Confused.com, Drivers who suffer from hay fever see their allergy peak during the summer, with 24% of those surveyed find their hay fever impacts their vision while driving.

Piriton proves most popular antihistamine among those surveyed to keep allergy symptoms at bay; but the medication used in this this could be risky for those behind the wheel.

85% of those involved in an accident saw further impact, including an increase to their insurance costs or motoring convictions.

A survey by Confused.com of 1,500 UK motorists with hay fever found that it caused more than 68% to have a negative impact on their driving. And for many, this has led to a potentially dangerous situation, as 17% have experienced an accident or near-miss as a result.

Hay fever affects almost 1 in 2 people at some point in their life and can make them feel unwell during the most enjoyable seasons of the year. In fact, 49% of those surveyed see their symptoms peak during the summer months. And for most, these symptoms come in the form of sneezing (72%), itchy or watery eyes (68%) or a running or blocked nose (63%). But some motorists have also reported side effects of the allergy that are more concerning, especially while driving. Of those surveyed who saw a negative impact on their driving ability, 23% said that sneezing and coughing impacted their vision. 21% also reported a lack of concentration while driving, and a further 17% have felt dizziness or lightheadedness.

While these are all uncomfortable at the best of times, trying to tackle this while driving can be tricky. Of those who've had an accident or near miss due to hay fever, the most cases (37%) were losing control of the car from coughing or sneezing. 25% also found they lost control because their vision was compromised. As hay fever is known to cause drowsiness, it's no surprise that 27% also found their reactions and coordination delayed. And so understanding how to keep the symptoms at bay would certainly be beneficial. For many, the most popular way to do this is choosing medication to keep their symptoms at bay.

However, this can be risky, especially when choosing stronger medication. While most off-the-shelf or over-the-counter options are safe, some also have a sedating effect. And these should be avoided if you're driving. Diphenhydramine and Chlorphenamine are among the most common types that could have this effect, with chlorphenamine being the main medicine found in Piriton. So it's worrying that this is the most popular brand used by the allergy sufferers, with 39% having taken it before driving.

With many people choosing this medication, it's perhaps no surprise that they found their driving ability to be compromised. And experts urge motorists to choose non-drowsy alternatives if they're getting behind the wheel. If you're seen to be impacted by medication, this could lead to a conviction for drug driving if found to be driving dangerously. Confused.com's experts have outlined drug driving laws, including which prescription medication should be avoided if you're driving.

Being involved in an accident or near miss can be a distressing time, especially when it's considered out of your control. But 85% saw further consequences to the incident. 32% said their insurance costs increased, perhaps as a result of needing to make a claim. And 30% had points on their licence, or a fine (23%). It's clear that this allergy is causing some financial impact on drivers, especially during a challenging economic time.

Taking measures to keep hay fever symptoms at bay not only makes it more comfortable for sufferers, but could keep them safe while driving too. But a sneeze or cough can't be helped. If drivers find their symptoms too severe, then stopping until they pass will make sure they're not in a dangerous situation.

Louise Thomas, Confused.com motor insurance expert comments:- "We're not at the peak time of year where hay fever sufferers are hit hard with their symptoms, and these are uncomfortable at the best of times. However, it's clear that this is also impacting them while driving, with consequences like an accident or near-miss a common occurrence for many. Sneezing or coughing behind the wheel can cause you to swerve or lose control of the car, and this can be unavoidable. But if you feel a sneeze of cough coming, try to slow down and be aware of any traffic or hazards ahead of you. But the other risk is taking certain medications before you drive. This can have a sedating effect, which could land you in trouble with the law if it impacts your driving ability. Always read the label or speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure if your usual medication is considered to be unsafe for driving. They should point you to an alternative. Hay fever can't be avoided, and it's a real pain for those who suffer. But taking the right measures before driving can keep you safe while on the road."

Charity in search for the UK's walking champions)

LIVING Streets is looking for inspiring entrants for the:- 'Charles Maher Award - Walking Champion 2023.' The UK charity for everyday walking is asking people to nominate individuals, local groups or organisations who have campaigned to get more people walking and wheeling in their area.  

The award was set up in honour of Charles Maher, a campaigner and longstanding supporter of Living Streets; formerly the Pedestrians Association; and nominees are judged on their creativity and the level of impact they have had.

Stephen Edwards, Chief Executive, Living Streets said:- "People across the UK are doing incredible things to improve the places we live for walking and wheeling; and they deserve recognition. Many individuals, groups and organisations work tirelessly to make our streets safer and more attractive so that people can be active and feel connected to our communities. You might know someone campaigning for safer streets for people using a wheelchair or pushchair, a parent who's helped make walking to School safer for local families, or an organisation encouraging older adults to get out and about. Whoever it is, we want to hear about them."

Individuals, local groups, organisations or local authorities can self nominate themselves or others for the Living Streets Charles Maher Award.

The deadline for nominations is midnight on 29 July 2023. Living Streets Members will then select the top nominee by vote, with the winner invited to collect their award during Living Streets' Annual General Meeting in the autumn.

The nomination form is on the Living Streets website:- LivingStreets.Org.UK.