When the summer sun blazes in full glory, it inspires longer days and more opportunities for outdoor activities. However, the intense sunlight can also pose significant challenges for drivers. Sun glare, which happens because the sun’s rays are reflected off surfaces or are shining directly into a driver’s eyes, can lead to hazardous conditions on the road.
The temporary blindness that results from the glare can reduce a driver’s visibility and lead to an accident. Luckily, drivers can explore effective ways to mitigate the risks associated with sun glare to help maintain safety on the road during the summer months.
Sun glare and its risks
While sun glare can happen as long as the sun is out during summer days, it’s more likely during sunrise and sunset when the sun is low on the horizon. The intense brightness of the rays can compromise a driver’s perception of the road and make it difficult to:
- Notice when pedestrians are crossing the road
- Realize when traffic signals change
- Perceive other vehicles in traffic
A driver’s reduced visibility due to the sun’s glare can:
- Increase the likelihood of a rear-end collision
- Result in lane-change mishaps
- Cause pedestrian accidents
Drivers can adopt preventive measures to reduce the impact of the sun’s glare.
Strategies to avoid sun glare accidents
Car sun visors are one of the simplest yet effective tools to block direct sunlight. Drivers can adjust the visor to shield their eyes without compromising their perception of the road. Motorists can also invest in polarized sunglasses during summer to filter out horizontal sunlight waves when they’re behind the wheel.
Drivers should also remember that a dirty windshield can further compromise their vision during summer because the specs of dirt can amplify the effects of sun glare. A clean windshield on the inside and outside can help ensure there are no smudges and streaks that can scatter light and worsen glare. Summer might be a good time to replace worn-out windshields to help maintain clear visibility on the road.
Road users can get involved in accidents for several reasons, and the sun’s glare is just one of them. Car accident survivors can benefit from seeking appropriate legal guidance to better understand if they can pursue compensation for their injuries.