0
0
Austria’s peak pollen season is creating serious safety concerns on the road, prompting the ÖAMTC to warn allergy sufferers about a significantly increased risk of accidents. Sneezing fits, itchy eyes, headaches and breathing difficulties can impair drivers for several seconds — long enough to cause dangerous situations in traffic.
“Anyone who sneezes several times while driving is effectively travelling blind for moments at a time — and that can be life‑threatening,” cautions ÖAMTC traffic psychologist Marion Seidenberger. She also warns that some anti‑allergy medications can slow reaction times or cause drowsiness. Medical advice is essential before taking them, she says, and drivers should critically assess their own fitness to drive. “If symptoms are strong, it’s better not to get behind the wheel at all.”
To help assess daily pollen exposure, allergy sufferers can use dedicated pollen apps. Levels vary by region and time of day: rural areas typically see the highest concentrations in the early morning, while cities peak in the late afternoon. To support safer driving, the mobility club has compiled key recommendations for navigating the pollen season.
Key Safety Tips for Drivers During Pollen Season
- Sleep hygiene — High morning pollen levels make it advisable to sleep with windows closed. Lack of sleep caused by allergy symptoms reduces concentration and reaction time.
- Daily hygiene — Washing hair before bed removes pollen; avoid drying bedding outdoors, as pollen clings easily to damp fabric.
- Medical advice — Side effects of allergy medication should not be underestimated. Consult a doctor if unsure about driving ability.
- Desensitisation therapy — Immunotherapy can help long‑term, but drivers should not operate a vehicle for at least three hours after an injection.
- Parking choices — Avoid parking under trees, especially maple and linden, to reduce pollen accumulation on the car.
- Vehicle cleaning — Regular interior and exterior cleaning is essential. Vacuum seats and dashboards — ideally while wearing an FFP2 mask to avoid inhaling stirred‑up pollen.
- Closed windows — Keep windows shut while driving and use the air conditioning. Motorcyclists should keep visors closed.
- Pet care — Pollen collects in animal fur. Regular washing, brushing or wiping down helps reduce exposure.
- Air‑conditioning filters — A clean pollen or cabin filter improves air quality. Replace it twice a year, ideally in spring and autumn.
- Tissues within reach — Keep tissues easily accessible in the centre console, preferably already pulled out for quick use.
- Anti‑allergy nasal spray — Can prevent sneezing fits and improve safety on longer journeys.
- Emergency medication — Keep necessary medication close at hand, ensuring proper storage and cooling if required.
A Call for Preparation
By following these measures, allergy sufferers can significantly reduce risks and stay safe even during periods of heavy pollen exposure. The ÖAMTC urges drivers to prepare early, monitor their symptoms and avoid driving when impairment is too strong.
- source: oe24.at/picture: pixabay.com
This post has already been read 12358 times!
