A recent survey has revealed that hay fever may contribute to an increased risk of car accidents, with many sufferers experiencing symptoms that impair their ability to drive safely. The study, conducted by Volvo, polled 2,000 British motorists who suffer from hay fever during a period of high pollen counts amid recent warm weather.

According to the findings, 80 percent of respondents reported that symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and drowsiness negatively affect their driving. Nearly one-third—31 percent—said they have closed their eyes while driving due to hay fever discomfort. Additionally, 18 percent admitted to feeling sleepy behind the wheel after taking allergy treatments, and 13 percent indicated they had removed both hands from the steering wheel during sneezing episodes. Approximately five percent of participants, equivalent to around 535,000 drivers in the UK, reported experiencing a near-miss accident attributed to their hay fever symptoms.

The survey also highlighted age-related differences in risk, with drivers aged 25 to 44 nearly five times more likely than those over 65 to have had a close call on the road related to hay fever.

In response to the findings, experts recommend keeping vehicle windows closed to limit pollen exposure while driving. Nicole Melillo Shaw, a representative from Volvo UK, emphasized that the safety risks linked to hay fever might be underestimated by many drivers. She noted that Volvo’s vehicles are equipped with advanced cabin filtration systems designed to significantly reduce the presence of pollen allergens inside the car, potentially enhancing driver safety during peak allergy seasons.

With roughly one-quarter of the UK population affected by hay fever and pollen levels continuing to rise, the survey underscores the importance of addressing allergic symptoms to maintain road safety.