Up to 2 million UK drivers have had an accident, a near miss, or have temporarily lost control of their car as a result of sneezing while driving .
A survey commissioned by insurer esure also revealed that more than 20 million people can be affected by hay fever symptoms, while a worrying 21 per cent of those drivers who are afflicted take their hands off the wheel when sneezing and half close their eyes while having a sneezing fit.
The company added that accidents can sometimes be caused by drivers being distracted by passengers sneezing.
Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting at esure, said: "The start of the hay fever season is upon us and it's crucial for drivers to prepare for its highly distracting and potentially dangerous symptoms. Keep tissues at hand in the car, check the pollen count on the weather forecast and do not set out on a car journey if conditions are particularly severe."




