How to stay safe in glare of the sun
IT has been two weeks and there’s still no sign of the sun leaving the UK anytime soon.
We’ve got our summer clothes out and are ready to take those weekend road trips to the beach, however the glaring sun is taking no prisoners.
Being dazzled by the sun can be a major distraction and is often a factor in summer collisions.
Even though we have many tools that aid in protecting us from the glare, we often forget to use them.
This week’s tips, from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards Richard Gladman, provide advice on how to stay safe on the road with the glare of the sun.
Keep your windscreen clean both inside and out; a dirty screen will magnify the glare.
Check on the outside windscreen for chips or cracks, replace worn wiper blades and make sure your washer bottle is kept well topped up with good quality screen wash to help remove those summer bugs.
Keep a cloth or chamois to wipe away the dirt that builds up on the inside of the glass.
Use your sun visor. It may sound pretty obvious but a surprising number of people forget.
Invest in polarized sunglasses and remember to take a rest. Your eyes will strain quickly if you are squinting.
If you are dazzled by the sun, slow down and leave extra space between yourself and the driver ahead. This will give you more time to regain full control and assess the situation around you.
Remember that when the sun is low behind you, you might be able to see just fine, but oncoming drivers might not see you so well.
Richard said: “It’s easy to get distracted when the sun is out and the world seems a better place.
“By keeping the screen clean and your view shaded where possible, you will give yourself the best chance of staying safe.
“If you are wearing sunglasses, bear in mind that the protection they offer will be magnified by any tinted windows and remember to keep them clean – it’s amazing how distorting a sun cream fog can be.
“Be ready to take them off in tunnels or shaded areas but keep them close to hand.”