As hay fever season intensifies across the UK, road safety experts are warning motorists to pay closer attention to the effects of common allergy treatments before getting behind the wheel. Even medicines widely regarded as non-drowsy may affect some drivers.
The warning comes as warmer weather and rising pollen levels increase demand for antihistamines across the country. Experts say drivers remain legally responsible for ensuring they are fit to drive, regardless of whether the medication is prescribed or bought over the counter.
Hay fever affects a significant share of the population and, according to the latest guidance and expert advice, both symptoms and treatment can interfere with safe driving if individuals are affected.
Road Safety Concerns Grow as Pollen Season Returns
Experts at GEM Motoring Assist have cautioned that medications frequently taken to manage hay fever may produce side effects that can impair a motorist’s ability to drive safely.
As temperatures begin to rise across the UK, the Met Office has already issued high pollen count warnings in some areas, with hotter weather forecast to continue into next week. Against that backdrop, drivers are being urged not to underestimate the combined effect of allergy symptoms and medication.
According to guidance published by the NHS, cetirizine (sold under brands including Benadryl and Piritize) is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine. Even so, the NHS notes that some people may still experience drowsiness after taking it and advises those affected not to drive, cycle, or use tools or machinery.
The guidance also states that driving is an offence if a person’s ability to control a vehicle is impaired, and responsibility rests with the individual to decide whether they are safe to drive.
According to reports, hay fever cases have tripled over the last two decades and now affect around 26 per cent of adults in the UK. Data from the UK Health Security Agency also indicates that between 10 and 15 per cent of children experience hay fever, with people who have eczema or asthma potentially more vulnerable.
Legal Responsibility Remains With the Driver
GEM’s road safety adviser James Luckhurst said the organisation wants drivers with hay fever to understand that some remedies may affect safe driving. “They could cause tiredness, dizziness or grogginess, as well as compromising a driver’s vision and reaction time,” he said.
Luckhurst advised motorists to check with a GP or pharmacist before driving and to read all warnings included with medication packaging. According to GEM, the legal framework applied to illegal drugs also extends to legal medicines where driving ability is impaired. That includes both prescription medicines and products purchased without a prescription.
Drivers convicted of drug-driving may face a minimum one-year driving ban, an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison, and a criminal record. The offence remains on a driving licence for 11 years, with possible consequences for insurance costs, employment involving driving, and travel to some countries.
GEM also advised motorists to try a new medication at home before driving and to arrange alternative transport if they believe they may be affected.
