BLINDED BY THE LIGHT
Is it illegal to drive with sun glare & can I be fined for wearing sunglasses with dark lenses? Highway code explained
This benign object could get you a large fine
NOTHING beats a road trip on a sunny day - but there's one hazard that could cause you danger.
More than a third of UK drivers have admitted to bright sunshine impacting their road vision - risking theirs and others' safety.
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Is it illegal to drive with sun glare?
Bright sunlight can cause a strong glare across a car’s windscreen, making it difficult for drivers to see the road ahead.
Many motorists may not be aware that the Highway Code has advice for driving in the sun.
Rule 237 states: " If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary, stop."
Drivers should always adjust their speed to the environment, whether it is rain, snow, fog or sun.
If motorists fail to take action during times of reduced visibility they are putting themselves at risk of a £5,000 fine and three penalty points.
Drivers should also make sure that their windscreens are kept clean without any obstructions before setting off..
A Vanarama survey of 1,000 motorists discovered that the blazing glare of the sun had the most impact on safe driving during the spring or summertime.
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Interestingly, the research uncovered that over 55s struggle the most - with 42 per cent of those aged 55 and over admitting to being affected.
Andy Alderson, CEO, and Founder of Vanarama who conducted the survey, said: “To prevent being dazzled by the sun when driving, motorists should wear polarised sunglasses and keep a safe distance from other drivers when the sun is distorting their view.
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“Creating space between you and the car in front will give you more time to assess the road situation.
"If drivers feel like they do not have full control of the situation, they should pull over when safe to do so.
“You must also keep your windscreen clean in the summer months.
"A dirty windscreen can magnify the sun's glare making it harder to see the road."
Can I be fined for wearing sunglasses with dark lenses?
Yes, you can.
Ben Pitcher, car expert and Owner of DPF Experts says: “Wearing sunglasses can help you drive safely in the summer, but those with a lower tint level are not suitable for driving.
"Using dark sunglasses rated as ‘category 4’ can severely impair your vision, especially in low-light conditions like tunnels, sudden cloud cover, or during early mornings and evenings.
";This impairment can be hazardous and may result in fines ranging from £1,000 to £5,000."
It's suggested to wear polarising glasses during sunny days.
Sunglasses are graded by the amount of light they let in.
80 to 100% are known as "clear," and they have no limitations.
Categories 1-3 are legal for day use, but not for night.
Category four, which lets in 3 to 8 per cent of light, are not legal for driving.
How to drive safely in sunny conditions
Sun glare tends to be the worst in the early morning and late afternoon, bear this in mind when you're planning your journeys.
You can block out the harshest rays of the sun by using your car’s sun visor.
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Before heading out on car journeys in the sun, you should clean both the interior and exterior of the car windscreen, checking that they are free of any dirt and debris.
Make sure you have you legal sunglasses with you and leave a bigger gap between you and the vehicle in front.
Most Common Illegal Driving Activities
Here's a list of reckless driving behaviour and the fines and penalties you risk getting from it.
- Using phone while driving
Cheeky glance at a phone screen will result in six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine
New drivers might lose their licence if caught doing so within two years of obtaining it - Speeding
Lovers of fast and furious will end up with minimum three points and £100 fine - Running a red light
This offence will incur three points and £100 fine - Middle lane hogging
It constitutes careless driving and police will hand you out a £100 fine with three penalty points - Undertaking
This could possibly result in three points on your license and a £100 fine
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