As the UK enjoys a spell of warm weather, drivers are being warned about a serious hazard that could lead to fatal accidents: sun glare. While winter's black ice is a well-known danger, bright sunshine can be equally deadly on the roads.
Why Sun Glare Is Dangerous
With longer and brighter days, motorists face reduced visibility from low-lying sun, making it harder to judge distances, spot hazards, and react in time. The Highway Code advises drivers dazzled by sunlight to slow down or pull over if necessary.
Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, urges drivers to take precautions. He recommends wearing polarized sunglasses, which reduce glare without overly darkening the view. Standard dark lenses can block too much light, impairing visibility in low-light conditions.
Choosing the Right Sunglasses
Thompson explains: "Sunglasses are essential for reducing sun glare while driving. However, it's important to choose the right pair. Polarized lenses filter horizontal light, cutting reflections from roads and vehicles. Always ensure your sunglasses meet UK driving standards."
National Highways also advises keeping sunglasses handy but warns against category 4 lenses, which let in only 3% to 8% of visible light. These are designed for glacier walking or snowboarding, not driving.
Other Safety Tips
In addition to proper eyewear, drivers should keep their dashboard free of reflective items that can cause distracting glares. It's also a good time to check wiper blades; worn blades can leave streaks that reduce visibility. Finally, maintain a steady speed and safe distance from the car ahead, as other drivers may also be affected by glare.
Sun glare can catch motorists off guard, especially during early morning and late afternoon trips when the sun is low. While rain, fog, and ice are common visibility hazards, bright sunshine can be equally dangerous without proper preparation.
