Allergies have the potential to lead to a fatal accident on the road and as a Yuma car accident attorney, my team and I have seen it all. Think back to the last time you violently sneezed while behind the wheel. Maybe you’ve driven with runny eyes, a harsh headache or significant congestion.
It is not only those powerful sneezes that are a problem. The medinces allergy-sufferers take are also a threat to road safety. Injured? Our Yuma car accident attorney can help you obtain justice including financial compensation if you have been injured.
Driving With Allergic Rhinitis
Nearly one-third of all adults have allergic rhinitis. Rhinitis is caused by pollen or dust. Symptoms can include an itchy, stuffy or runny nose, and sneezing . Because of these symptoms, reaction times suffer. However, allergies do not stop people from driving.
The unfortunate truth is that seasonal allergy symptoms have the potential to impact driving ability, badly.
How to Drive Safely With Allergies
Those plagued by allergies should take their prescribed allergy medications to keep the condition under control. Use allergy medication before getting behind the wheel to stop the side effects of allergies. Focusing on the road ahead becomes easier with a clear head.
Beware of Pollen
Airborne pollen is the top cause of spring allergies and the pollen counts are what you need to worry about. If the pollen count is high, take your allergy medication sooner or in a heavier dose. You should also consider skipping driving on the days when your allergies are particularly bad.
Keep your vehicle’s windows closed so pollen doesn’t have a chance to get inside. Put your vehicle’s air conditioner on re-circulate so the outdoor air doesn’t move inside. When in doubt, stay inside. Avoid the early morning hours or windy and dry days. If you must go outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
Medications and Allergies Impact Driving Ability
A study conducted in the Netherlands shows allergies as well as medications for allergies impact one’s ability to drive. The study analyzed adults in their 30s by individuals challenging them to drive while suffering from pollen allergies. They were provided with antihistamines, subjected to allergens and placebos and allowed to drive.
The group that suffered from allergic reactions had motor skills equivalent to those of individuals with a blood-alcohol content of 0.03 percent.
Antihistamines are certainly helpful in combating allergies, but they can cause tiredness and fuzzy feelings. However, don’t assume your allergy meds will automatically make it that much easier to drive.
Yuma Car Accident Attorney: A Call Away
If you have been in a car accident due to someone else’s sneezes, help is available. You deserve the help of a savvy Yuma car accident attorney.
Our legal team will gather evidence, organize your medical records, fill out court forms, represent you at hearings and do everything else necessary in the push for justice. Reach out to us today to schedule a no-cost initial consult. You can contact us at 928-222-2222. Our hours are 8-5pm and calls answered 24/7.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.