Driving and Allergies: Why It's a Problem

Sarah Jio,Glamour magazine

Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing. These common symptoms of spring allergies could be just as dangerous on the road as driving under the influence of alcohol, say some experts. The news...

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Drunk-driving isn't the only hazard on the road. Experts are now warning about driving under the influence of allergies. According to a recent British survey, as many as 25 percent of people may be driving with extreme hay fever symptoms that could impair their driving. And, more than a third of those surveyed said their allergies have actually presented safety risks in the car.

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Steve Rounds, from the UK's Central Motorway Police Group had this to say: "Hay fever can cause frequent sneezing, forcing the sufferer to briefly shut their eyes and vision can also be affected by irritated, streaming eyes. So although I have a lot of sympathy, driving while affected in such a way would be irresponsible and could be held as an aggravating factor in any accident that led to a serious injury, or fatality." In other words, if you live in the UK, if your bad allergies contribute to an accident, you could be prosecuted for it.

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Let's discuss: Have allergies ever presented safety issues to you while driving?

P.S. The worst cities for spring allergies. And, 4 survival tips for seasonal allergy sufferers.

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