The RAC has issued a road safety alert warning UK drivers that wearing certain sunglasses during the upcoming heatwave could lead to fines and penalty points. The warning specifically highlights Category 4 sunglasses on the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) scale, which filter out up to 97% of daylight, severely restricting a driver's ability to spot hazards.
Legal Consequences
Under Section 96 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, driving with vision that falls below required legal standards is considered an offence, carrying an automatic fine and three penalty points. Road safety experts note that if overly dark lenses impair a driver's vision or contribute to an accident, motorists could face broader charges of careless or dangerous driving.
RAC Warning
"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," said Harriet Hernando, policy officer at the RAC. "We urge drivers to check their sunglasses, especially if they are normally used for extremely bright conditions, such as high-altitude mountain environments."
Highway Code Rule
The advisory also warns against tinted lenses during sudden low-light events, such as summer thunderstorms or low-hanging cloud cover, which aligns with Rule 94 of the Highway Code - prohibiting tinted eyewear in conditions of reduced visibility.
Suitable Sunglasses for Driving
Drivers are urged to check the packaging or arm labels of sunglasses for their VLT rating. While Category 4 sunglasses are not suitable for driving, category 3 shades are considered ideal for daytime driving, offering strong glare protection without compromising hazard awareness. Category 2 on the VLT scale are suitable for standard daylight conditions, though not recommended for dusk or poor lighting. Category 0 or 1 sunglasses are considered safe for daytime driving, but both provide only minor tinting or glare reduction.
As a result, motorists in the UK are advised to keep an appropriate, driving-safe pair of Category 2 or 3 sunglasses stored in their cars throughout the summer months.
