Drivers across England face a potential £1,000 fine and three penalty points if pollen accumulates on their windscreen, according to a warning from motoring experts. The alert applies even to those who do not suffer from hayfever, as the obstruction to vision breaches safety regulations under the Highway Code.
Pollen levels very high across England
The Met Office has reported that pollen levels will be very high across the entirety of England this week as the country experiences a blistering heatwave. Temperatures peaked on Wednesday and Thursday at around 39°C, with a chance of exceeding that in some areas.
For hayfever sufferers, the weather could prove miserable, making simple tasks like driving more difficult due to severe symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and fatigue.
Cleaning your car can reduce symptoms and fines
Keith Hawes, Director of car leasing provider Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, advised: "Regularly cleaning your car can help minimise the build-up of dust and pollen. Be sure to vacuum carpets, mats, seat covers, dashboards, and any other surfaces where particles can collect. If cleaning is neglected, these allergens can be recirculated throughout the car as soon as you switch on the air conditioning."
He added: "It's important to also clean the exterior, pollen covering the windscreen is considered an obstruction to vision, which goes against safety regulations. Under the Highway Code, drivers must ensure they always have an unobstructed view of the road. Failing to do so, by allowing pollen to build up and cause streaks, could see drivers face a £1,000 fine and three penalty points."
Additional risks for hayfever sufferers
Hayfever sufferers could also face an unlimited fine if found to be driving under the influence due to antihistamine consumption. Mr Hawes emphasised: "Many drivers underestimate just how much hay fever can affect their ability to stay in control behind the wheel. Symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes and fatigue can be just as dangerous as other common distractions if they're not managed properly."
He recommended simple steps such as checking that medication won't cause drowsiness, keeping windows closed, and ensuring the car is clean and well-maintained. "Ultimately, drivers have a responsibility to make sure they're fit to drive at all times, and taking precautions during high pollen periods is essential to staying safe and avoiding unnecessary fines."
