It goes without saying that driving during difficult road conditions is very tough. The main ones that spring to mind are often snow, ice, wind or rain, but one condition people often forget about is the glare from the sun. Whether it’s during summer or winter, low sunlight reduces visibility drastically and is one of the main causes of collisions each year.
Being blinded by the sun definitely isn’t something you want to face as you head off on your summer road trip or your commute home from work, so here at the AA we have put together a list of ways to help you drive in low sun.
GET YOURSELF SOME SUNGLASSES
Sun glasses aren’t just for summer, they are useful all year round. It may sound silly, but it’s important to always keep a spare pair of sunglasses in your car. Investing in a pair of polarized glasses will be particularly useful because they will protect against sun glare and improve visibility if there’s a glare from the sun shining on a wet road.
USE THE VISOR
It sounds simple, but use the visors your car provides. That’s what they are there for – to block out any sun hindering your vision and to ensure you have clear visibility.
WASH YOUR WINDSCREEN
Dirt or debris on the windscreen reduces your visibility. Low sunlight will shine directly on any smudges or dirt on the windscreen, making it harder for you to see the road ahead. Clean inside and out, ensuring the screen is squeaky clean before you start your journey. Check your wiper blades are working properly and replace them if they are worn. Make sure you have enough windscreen wash too.
SLOW DOWN
The number one thing to do if you’re blinded by the sun is to slow down. When visibility is poor, you have less time to see or react to approaching hazards. Leave plenty of distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
STOP IF YOU NEED TO
If you do get dazzled by the sun, slow down and pull over when and where it is safe for you to do so. Rest your eyes before getting back on the road, to avoid putting yourself or other road users at risk. Wait 10 or 15 minutes before you take off again, to ensure you have rested and the sun has shifted position.
Keep your car insurance costs down by choosing the right level of cover with the AA. We offer multiple types of cover to support all our members.
