Drivers warned of massive £1,000 fine and licence points for having hay fever during heatwave
The heatwave is expected to last until Sunday, September 10
PA
The Met Office has forecast that most regions across England, Wales and parts of Scotland will see medium pollen rates this week, which could cause issues for those with hay fever.
The UK Health Security Agency issued an amber heat-health alert for eight regions in England set to last between September 5 and September 10.
It warned that temperatures would exceed 30C, with this having profound impacts on those over the age of 65 and anyone with a pre-existing health condition.
Research shows that 14 per cent of motorists have admitted that hay fever symptoms affect their driving in the summer.
Drivers could be hit with a huge £1,000 fine
PA
Potential symptoms could include having itchy eyes or even sneezing at the wheel, both of which could increase the risk of an accident.
If these symptoms result in the driver failing to have proper control of the vehicle or fuel view off the road and traffic ahead of them, they could face consequences.
This could include a massive £1,000 fine and three penalty points on their driving licence.
There are further warnings that motorists could be affected if they take action to combat the effects of hay fever.
Taking allergy tablets could put drivers at further risk as this could lead them to be convicted for taking legal drugs that may affect their driving.
The NHS website states that side effects of antihistamines can make people drowsy and sleepy.
It adds that the medicine that can make drivers drowsy can reduce co-ordination, reaction speed and judgement, with suggestions that people should not drive or use machinery after taking those antihistamines.
Andy Alderson, CEO and founder of Vanarama, commented: “Many medicines can cause tiredness.
“Some antihistamines cause drowsiness and so I would recommend hay fever sufferers check the label before they drive.
“The advice is ‘always read the label’, and this should always be the case before your drive after taking medication.
“If you are unsure you should speak to a medical professional to get advice before stepping in the car.”
During the heatwave, motorists are being urged to keep out of the sun at the hottest times, generally between 11am and 3pm.
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The pollen count is expected to remain around medium
PA
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, suggested that people should check on older family members, friends, or neighbours and those with heart or lung conditions.
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