Drivers warned they must have 1 item in car this week to help avoid possible £5,000 fine

Driving without sunglasses can be risky, especially during certain times of the year when the sun is low in the sky. This can create a dangerous glare that makes it harder to see the road clearly. According to experts, failing to take precautions could lead to accidents, fines, or even penalty points on your driving license.

As the days grow longer, the sun sits lower in the sky, particularly during early mornings and late afternoons. Over the next week, sunrise will be around 7 a.m., and sunset will occur at approximately 5:30 p.m., which coincides with rush hour traffic. This means many drivers will be facing the sun directly during their commute, increasing the risk of accidents due to reduced visibility.

Research shows that only 39.5% of drivers slow down when faced with sun glare, which is concerning. Claire Hayden, an optician from Haydenswan Eyecare, emphasizes the importance of taking this issue seriously. She advises drivers to keep a pair of sunglasses in their car at all times. Polarized lenses, in particular, are highly effective at reducing glare compared to regular sunglasses.

Drivers who fail to maintain proper control of their vehicle due to poor visibility caused by sun glare could face fines of up to £1,000 and receive three penalty points on their license. In more severe cases, such as careless driving leading to a serious accident, fines can rise to £5,000.

Claire explains that low sun can be just as hazardous as driving in fog or heavy rain. In fact, the glare from a low sun can be even more blinding than the higher sun of summer. This glare can reflect off the windshield, distorting the driver’s view of the road and creating a dangerous situation.

She also notes that middle-aged and older drivers are more sensitive to glare because their eyes adapt more slowly to changes in light. Additionally, people with lighter-colored eyes or those who have had vision correction surgery may also experience heightened sensitivity to glare.

To stay safe, Claire recommends keeping your windshield clean, as dirt and smudges can make glare worse. Another useful tip is to use your car’s sun visor to block direct sunlight without blocking your view of the road.

When driving in low sun conditions, it’s also important to slow down and increase the distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Reduced visibility means you’ll need more time to react to sudden changes in traffic.

In summary, wearing sunglasses while driving, especially during sunrise and sunset, is a simple yet effective way to protect yourself and others on the road. By taking these precautions, you can avoid fines, penalty points, and, most importantly, reduce the risk of a serious accident. Stay safe and always be prepared for changing driving conditions!