Why 88% of South West Drivers Admit Hay Fever Affects Driving

Most of us file hay fever under “annoying” rather than “dangerous”. New research suggests that once you are behind the wheel, the gap between those two things is a lot narrower than you might think.

With the recent heatwave, plenty of drivers around Truro are starting to feel that familiar tickle at the back of the throat. For anyone planning to spend more time on the road this summer, a local car retailer has put together a few simple precautions to make driving both safer and more comfortable.

The advice follows new research commissioned by Volvo, which looked at how hay fever is affecting motorists in the South West. And the numbers are higher than you might expect.

What the research found

Drivers in the South West reported sneezing, itchy eyes, fatigue and reduced concentration while driving. Of those surveyed, 88% admitted these symptoms had affected their control of the vehicle.

It is having a real effect on how people get around, too. A notable 17% of local drivers said they had delayed journeys, changed routes or avoided trips altogether on high-pollen days. And 44% of local drivers believe hay fever should be treated as a road safety issue.

Tom Rothwell, from Vertu Volvo Truro on Threemilestone Industrial Estate, said: “With so many drivers experiencing hay fever symptoms while on the road, it’s important that motorists recognise the impact this can have on their concentration and comfort behind the wheel.

“As we move into the summer months, even small preventative measures can help make journeys safer and more enjoyable, helping local drivers feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.”

Three tips for driving through allergy season

Plan trips carefully

“Before making any journey, always check the pollen forecast, and where possible, plan longer journeys for times when pollen counts are lower, such as after rainfall or later in the evening. If a journey can be altered to avoid rural areas, this will limit contact with high-pollen zones and make driving conditions much more comfortable,” Tom said.

He also suggested keeping medication, tissues and sunglasses within easy reach before setting off, and making sure any antihistamines are non-drowsy and suitable for use before getting behind the wheel.

Keep the cabin sealed

It may seem obvious, but Tom said closing the windows is one of the simplest ways to cut down on pollen exposure, with the air conditioning used to keep everyone cool instead. Fitting effective pollen filters is another option worth considering, as these remove pollen particles from the outside air before it passes through the vents and into the car.

“At Vertu Volvo Truro, our award-winning range of new vehicles feature advanced air purification technology designed to help create a cleaner and more comfortable driving environment,” Tom added. “Available on selected models, the Advanced Air Cleaner system can remove up to 99.9 per cent of grass, tree and weed pollen allergens from incoming air.”

Maintain the car’s interior

Keeping the car clean is a simple way to reduce the pollen that builds up inside the cabin over time. Tom recommended regularly vacuuming seats, mats and surfaces, and frequently wiping down the dashboard to clear away settled dust.

A new car event in Truro

The advice comes alongside a new car event at Vertu Volvo Truro, running from 20th May to 10th June. Prospective buyers can speak with the team about driving with hay fever, or about vehicles fitted with air purification technology, and take advantage of offers on the showroom’s models.

For more information, contact Vertu Volvo Truro on 01872 300653 or visit volvocars.com/truro.