The RAC has issued a road safety warning to UK motorists ahead of the upcoming heatwave, cautioning that wearing excessively dark sunglasses while driving could lead to fines and penalty points. The alert focuses on Category 4 sunglasses, which block up to 97% of visible light and are designed for extreme conditions like high-altitude environments.
Legal Risks Under the Road Traffic Act
Under Section 96 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, driving with vision below the legal standard is an offence, punishable by a fine and three penalty points. Road safety experts note that if overly dark lenses impair vision or contribute to an accident, drivers could face more serious charges of careless or dangerous driving.
Harriet Hernando, policy officer at the RAC, said: "Most of us will be reaching for our sunglasses, but many will not realise that the darkest of shades could be unsuitable for driving, and even illegal in the case of category four sunglasses."
Highway Code and Reduced Visibility
The advisory also warns against tinted lenses during sudden low-light events, such as summer thunderstorms or low cloud, aligning with Rule 94 of the Highway Code, which prohibits tinted eyewear in reduced visibility.
Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Driving
Drivers are urged to check the packaging or arm labels for the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) rating. Category 3 sunglasses are ideal for daytime driving, offering strong glare protection without compromising hazard awareness. Category 2 is suitable for standard daylight but not recommended for dusk or poor lighting. Categories 0 and 1 are safe for daytime driving but provide minimal tinting.
Motorists are advised to keep a driving-safe pair of Category 2 or 3 sunglasses in their cars throughout the summer.
