Hay fever 'putting drivers at risk'

Date: 15/5/2012

Many people could be putting their lives at risk this summer by getting behind the wheel while suffering from hay fever.

New research from More Than has revealed the 700,000 British motorists who have the condition will have their eyes closed for an average of 60 seconds during a 45-minute journey.

This is due to watery eyes and bouts of sneezing - both of which also affect their reaction times and their awareness of those around them.

Furthermore, many people take antihistamine-based drugs to combat the symptoms, which can lead to drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision.

More Than Managing Director Janet Connor said: "British drivers that suffer from hay fever need to start putting in place the correct measures to ensure both their safety and the safety of others when on the road."

The Met Office notes the hay fever season in the UK usually lasts from March to August, with grass pollen being particularly prevalent from May onwards.

Posted by Sarah Bailey