With temperatures in Ireland expected to soar this week, many hay fever sufferers are reaching for medication to ease their symptoms as the pollen count reaches “very high” due to the heat.
Insurance experts, Quote Devil, have warned that taking legal hayfever medication before driving can put Irish motorists at risk of receiving a driving ban of up to six years.
Over-the-counter and prescription drugs like antihistamines can help to relieve symptoms commonly associated with hay fever such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy and watery eyes, but they are not without their risks for drivers.
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The Irish insurance experts explain that, according to the Road Safety Authority, it is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs (including prescription drugs) if your driving is impaired to such an extent that you don’t have proper control of the vehicle.
If convicted of an existing offence, the minimum disqualification on a first offence is four years and six years for a second or subsequent offence.
Some antihistamines such as chlorphenamine (including Piriton) and promethazine can make you feel sleepy and the HSE advises not to drive or use machinery after taking any type of antihistamine.
Gemma Keaveney, CEO at Quote Devil, said, “We want to make Irish motorists aware of the risks associated with driving when taking certain medications.
“Many antihistamines contain ingredients that can cause drowsiness which can slow down reaction times and blur vision when operating a vehicle.
“If an accident is caused and the driver is found to be driving under an impaired state, then they face the maximum penalties and possible imprisonment. Always make sure to check the instructions on medications.”
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