Whether just after sunrise or before sunset, driving can be dangerous at these times as glare can temporarily reduce your visibility.
When sun glare is an issue slow down and use extra caution especially while driving through school zones, say experts.
To cut the risk of glare, German testing organization TÜV Thuringen suggests wearing sunglasses, no matter what the season and adjusting your driving style.
You can also raise your seat position and lower your sun visor.
If necessary, you can also use your hand to temporarily reduce the glare from the sun.
Drivers can adapt their driving style by keeping an eye on the flow of traffic, being ready to brake and increasing safety distances.
And if the sun is low in the sky in your area, drive even more cautiously particularly when you are turning and overtaking. Double check that no one is coming and the road is clear before starting your manoeuvre.
If you have a passenger, they can also help you out as they may be able to see more clearly.
You can also prepare in advance. A dirty windscreen further increases the glare so be sure to clean your windscreen regularly, both inside and out.
Also ensure there is enough windscreen washer fluid in the reservoir.
Bear in mind that driving without visibility or reduced ability to see is always dangerous – even at low speeds as if an obstacle suddenly appears, you have hardly any time to react.
Three examples of how many metres you cover whilst driving blind if you can’t see for just one second:
- A good 8 metres at 30 km/h
- Almost 14 metres at 50 km/h
- Just under 28 metres at 100 km/
Sunglasses can make all the difference
Britain's RAC motoring club notes drivers who don’t wear sunglasses to protect against the dazzling effects of the sun may be inadvertently putting the safety of all roads users at risk.
The RAC notes that Department for Transport (DfT) data showing contributory factors in reported road accidents reveals just how many collisions are caused by bright, dazzling sunlight.
Generally, as summers heat up, it is more important than ever for drivers to "wear appropriate eyewear to protect themselves against glare and keep themselves and other road users safe."
So although it may not be legally required where you are to drive wearing sunglasses in bright conditions, you could be breaking the law if you don’t slow down or stop if you become temporarily blinded by the sun.
After all, as the RAC notes, you could face a fine if you do not drive safely due to being blinded by the sun – whether that’s as a result of not wearing sunglasses, not using a vehicle’s sun visor or not slowing down or pulling over.
Further tips for dazzled drivers include avoid storing papers or other items on the dashboard, says the AAA, the US driving association.
It suggests drivers having a difficult time seeing the road can use lane markings to help guide you.
You can also switch on your own headlights to help other drivers see in difficult conditions.
