Hay fever season has made its return, bringing with it a host of unwanted symptoms that range from mildly irritating to downright debilitating for drivers, potentially exposing them to hefty fines. Sufferers often battle an array of issues including blocked sinuses, runny noses, loss of smell, coughing fits, sneezing, fatigue, itchiness, headaches, sore eyes, and more.
The Met Office reports hay fever affects around 10 million people every year. While there’s no cure, medications can alleviate symptoms, yet some could inadvertently land motorists in legal hot water while on the road.
Motorpoint driving expert Tim Rodie warns: “Seasonal allergies can be incredibly annoying and it can feel like you have to put your life on hold.”
He stressed the importance of drivers evaluating the severity of their hay fever symptoms before deciding to drive.
Rodie continued: “Watery eyes and sneezing are just a couple of ways that hay fever can impair your vision and take your eyes off the road which could put yourself, other drivers and passengers in danger.”
He also cautioned drivers to “double check” their hay fever medication, highlighting that certain allergy treatments could increase the “risk” of “failing the drug driving test”, which might result in “a driving ban if you’re pulled over.”
Rodie said: “Certain antihistamines, as well as making you feel drowsy, could cause you to test positive on a drug test.
“Many common antihistamines include diphenhydramine, also known as Benadryl, which may cause a false positive – although it’s not yet clear what dose of diphenhydramine causes people to test positive.”
According to the NHS, certain drowsiness-inducing antihistamines can cause “reduced co-ordination, reaction speed and judgement”. It states users should “not drive or use machinery after taking these antihistamines”.
Rodie continued: “Driving with care and attention is a non-negotiable that hay fever can get in the way of, depending on how severe it is.
“The Highway Code says that you mustn’t drive if you are not paying proper attention or are distracted. Hay fever symptoms affect your sinuses which can significantly impair your focus and concentration on the road; this may be considered dangerous driving and you risk a fine of up to £2,500 and points on your licence.
“So, if you’re unsure, use another mode of transport or postpone your plans until your symptoms have significantly improved.”
To manage symptoms effectively while driving, Rodie advises keeping your vehicle clean to minimise pollen and dust, which could help control symptoms behind the wheel.
He also suggests changing or installing a new pollen filter in your car to ensure the air conditioning system remains free of debris, circulating cleaner air.
The specialist added “guidelines recommend replacing them approximately every 12,000 miles – exceeding this can lead to clogging and reduced effectiveness.”
Many people share their hay fever struggles on social media platforms. A TikTok creator posted a widely viewed clip showcasing her repeatedly sneezing while driving.
In the comments section, viewers expressed their concerns. One individual stated: “That looks painful and dangerous, considering that [you] are driving. Bless you girl”.
Another viewer cautioned: “Try to look at the road!” while a third commenter inquired: “Why is it SO bad this year?”
