Britain’s scorching weather could create a hidden risk for millions of drivers, with experts warning that hay fever flare-ups, thunderstorms and even common medication could leave motorists facing fines or penalty points.
As temperatures rise and storms sweep across parts of the UK, drivers suffering from severe allergies are being urged to take extra care behind the wheel.
The warning comes as experts highlight the rare phenomenon known as “thunder fever” — where thunderstorms and high pollen levels combine to worsen hay fever and asthma symptoms. Moisture and lightning can break pollen into smaller particles, allowing them to enter the lungs more easily and trigger stronger reactions.
With around 16 million people in the UK estimated to suffer from hay fever, motorists experiencing sneezing fits, watery eyes or breathing difficulties could find their driving ability affected.
Insurance experts at Quotezone warned that drivers must ensure their symptoms do not compromise concentration, visibility or control of their vehicle.
Motorists have also been warned about the dangers of hay fever medication. Under UK drug-driving laws, authorities do not distinguish between illegal substances, prescription medicines and over-the-counter treatments if they impair a driver’s ability.
That means even everyday allergy tablets that cause drowsiness could potentially lead to a conviction if a driver is deemed unsafe.
Other weather-related distractions could also put motorists at risk, including staring at dramatic storms, known as “rubber-necking”, or continuing to drive when heavy rain makes it difficult to see clearly through the windscreen.
With Britain facing further extreme weather, drivers are being urged to stay alert as conditions create new risks on the roads.
Experts at Quotezone.co.uk say if drivers find themselves stuck in the car during a thunderstorm, official advice from the Met Office is to wind up the window and stay inside the vehicle – the metal frame of the car should act as a conductive Faraday cage, passing the current around the passengers and into the ground, should it be struck by lightning.
However, any damage to cars caused by driving through flash floods that accompany thunderstorms might not be covered by insurance policies. Quotezone warns motorists to carefully check their car insurance policy exclusions, and even if routes are partially blocked, drivers should think twice before using waterlogged roads.
Quotezone.co.uk CEO and car insurance expert Greg Wilson comments: “Driving in the heat alone can be challenging but there are things drivers need to know to avoid risking penalty points or fines and keep themselves safe on the roads.
“If a storm is predicted, look at official flood warnings, avoid roads that are likely to flood and allow more travel time, note drivers may have to pull over and wait it out if the downpour starts to affect their visibility – drivers can be fined if they can’t see clearly out of all windows.
“Hay fever symptoms can come on unexpectedly and some types of medication do cause drowsiness or carry a ‘do not operate heavy machinery’ warning. If a driver fails to obey this warning and gets behind the wheel, they could risk a hefty fine of up to £5,000, points on their licence and endanger themselves and other road users.”
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