Sneezing While Driving

Sneezing and driving don't mix but can you prevent it? Here's what to know about sneezing, driving, and car insurance.

Sneezing While Driving

Everyone has had that feeling – the buildup of pressure in your sinuses and the desire to simply hold it, so you don’t sneeze while driving. It’s never a good thing to sneeze since you are likely to close your eyes, but there may not be much you can do at that moment. For those with constant sneezing concerns, it may be time to think about ways to control it so you remain more in control over the experience. Consider a few helpful tips to help you to stop sneezing while driving or to minimize the risks involved if you do.

Sneezing on a Highway – Are You Responsible for Damage You Cause?

It’s important to know that you are responsible for any instances in which you lose control over your car. Unfortunately, most people close their eyes when they sneeze. It is simply a natural reaction to the process. That means in those moments you do not have your eyes on the road. It also means that you could swerve or jerk the wheel as you sneeze. Colliding with another car or the median is a dangerous situation. Nevertheless, you’re still responsible for the damage you cause.
 

The good news is if you have collision insurance, a type of car insurance, your agent will understand it was an accident and not something you can control. You can file a claim for any damage you cause to your car if you have this type of insurance. If you cause damage to another person’s car, your liability insurance may help cover those costs.
 

While you may not be able to control what happens when you sneeze behind the wheel, it’s good to know your insurance company is there to help you with claims. This depends on the coverage you have.

How to Stop Sneezing While Driving

Can you stop sneezing when driving? In some situations, you may be able to hold off on sneezing until you have the ability to pull over. For example, if you are able to hold back the sneeze, take this as an opportunity to pull into a parking lot. Then, blow your nose. Clearing your sinuses like this can help to reduce the risk of an additional sneeze behind the wheel.
 

Some doctors recommend not trying to stop a sneeze, noting the significant pressure this creates. Others say holding back the sneeze is okay. Some say meditation can help you to ease the pressure of a sneeze, aiding in calming your body.

Constant Sneezing – Why It Happens

Constant sneezing, which occurs when a person sneezes three or more times in a row or frequently, can be worrisome if you are behind the wheel. The more times you sneeze, the more opportunities there are for you to strike another car or object. It’s not clear why this occurs in some people. However, the process of sneezing is meant to clear the nasal passages. If you have an allergy or another sensitivity, this could be why you sneeze so frequently. Find out what you are allergic to so you can prevent breathing it in.

Should You Take Medicine for Sneezing?

If you are sick, taking medication may help you to feel better. Medicine for sneezing works to dry out the nasal passageways to help reduce the risk of a sneeze. However, medications come with limitations. If you are planning to drive after taking medication, be sure you are fully aware of your surroundings. Many medications can cause a person to feel tired. When this happens, it puts you at risk of causing an accident.
 

Other types of medications your doctor can recommend may do the opposite. They may help to keep you alert and focused on the road in front of you. It is always wise to speak to your doctor about which medications can help you.

Sneezing and Driving – How to Prevent an Accident

Imagine being in a car, and the need to sneeze occurs. Sneezing and driving can occur at any time. However, with a bit of practice, you may be able to reduce some of the risks present. For example, most people have a few seconds of warning prior to a sneeze. Use that to slow down the vehicle and to look around you. Know where other cars are, especially if you are on a highway.
 

If it is safe to stop the car, do so. If not, keep your arms in position on the wheel. Be sure to keep your head upright to minimize the amount of time you have your eyes off the road. By focusing on what’s happening before the sneeze and being ready to react afterward, you may minimize some of the risks you face.
 

Sneezing while driving isn’t something most people can avoid. However, learning to be a safe driver is also important. Be sure to contact your insurer if you are involved in an accident after you sneeze.
 

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