-
The Hidden Hazards of Summer Allergies and Hay Fever
High pollen counts are common across Northern Ireland during late spring and summer. While hay fever is often dismissed as a minor nuisance, it can pose a genuine safety risk when driving.
Consider this:
If you are travelling at 60mph and sneeze, your vehicle can travel up to 50 feet with your eyes closed. In that brief moment, a car ahead could brake suddenly, or a cyclist or pedestrian could move into your path — with devastating consequences.
Medication Matters
Many over‑the‑counter antihistamines can also cause:
- Drowsiness
- Slower reaction times
- Reduced concentration
Legally, driving while impaired by medication, even non‑prescription medication, is treated just as seriously as any other form of impaired driving. Always check that your hay fever treatment is clearly marked as non‑drowsy before getting behind the wheel.
-
The “Greasy Road” Effect After Dry Weather
We’ve all experienced that first heavy shower after a week of rare NI sunshine. While the rain feels refreshing, it creates a treacherous surface on the roads.
During dry spells, oil, rubber, and dust build up on the tarmac. When the rain finally hits, it doesn’t wash this away immediately; instead, it mixes with the grime to create a thin, greasy film. This makes the road surface incredibly slick, much like “black ice” in the winter.
If you find yourself driving in the rain after a dry patch, remember that your tyres won’t have the same grip they usually do, reduce your speed, increase braking distance, and assume less grip than normal.
-
Sun Glare: When Clear Skies Reduce Visibility
Low sun during early morning or evening drives can be more than an inconvenience; it can be completely blinding.
Sun glare is a frequent factor in rear‑end collisions and junction accidents, yet many drivers underestimate its impact.
It’s important to note: “The sun was in my eyes” is not considered a valid excuse if a collision occurs.
Drivers are legally expected to adapt to driving conditions, which may include:
- Slowing significantly
- Increasing following distance
- Pulling over safely if visibility is compromised
A clean windscreen is also essential. Dust, smears, and residue intensify glare, effectively “whitening out” your view of the road.
How to Stay Safe on Northern Ireland’s Roads This Summer
Summer driving should be enjoyable, but it requires a different type of awareness. By:
- Managing hay fever symptoms responsibly
- Adjusting your driving after dry spells
- Taking sun glare seriously
you can reduce your risk of being involved in a road traffic accident and help keep yourself, your passengers, and other road users safe.
Have you been involved in an accident? Don’t navigate the stress alone. Contact our expert team today on 028 9066 0244.
How CRASH Services Can Help You After A Car Crash or Accident
At CRASH Services, we specialise in helping drivers in Belfast, Newtownabbey, Newry, Derry~Londonderry and across Northern Ireland get back on the road quickly.
After an accident, our expert team will take care of:
And we do it all, at no cost to the not-at-fault driver.
Our service is free as we recover the costs from the third-party insurers.
Why Choose CRASH Services?
- Established in 1996
- Trusted by Hundreds of Thousands Local Northern Ireland Motorists
- No Cost to You, Costs Recovered from Insurers
- Complete Accident Management from Recovery to Repairs
- 99% Customer Recommendation Rate
Our Mission is Simple:
“To act with care for those involved in road traffic accidents.”
Need Help After an Accident in Belfast, Newtownabbey, Newry, Derry~Londonderry or anywhere across Northern Ireland?
Call us today on 028 9066 0244 or Request a Callback Today
CRASH Services, take care of everything, at no cost to you!
