When it’s chilly outside, the emergence of the sun from behind the clouds can quickly brighten your spirits and warm you up. Depending on the time of the day and the direction that you’re driving in, it can also make it difficult for you to safely maneuver your vehicle.
Sunrise and sunset are the two times of the day when you’re most vulnerable to being blinded by the sun as you attempt to drive. The glare that it creates can make it difficult for you to stay in your lane and limit your ability to swerve to avoid hazards that come into your path. This may make you more vulnerable to becoming involved in a crash.
Motorists who are blinded by the sun in a school zone may inadvertently strike a child because they’re unable to see them.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), there are a few different measures that you can take to improve your ability to drive in the sun.
While your sun visor can block some sunlight, it doesn’t completely do away with the glare on your windshield. If you regularly clean your windshield and avoid putting papers along the dashboard, then the glare will be significantly reduced. Wearing polarized glasses may also be effective in helping you minimize your sun exposure.
When you’re driving through a sunny area, you may want to try to identify lane markings and use them to guide you. If you’re having difficulty in finding them, then you may want to create a buffer between you and the surrounding cars. This can give you additional time to respond to hazards that come into your path. If you drive with your headlights illuminated, then it may make it easier for others to notice you as well.
We often hear about drowsy, reckless and distracted drivers causing crashes. The truth is that the sun can affect a motorist’s responsiveness on a similar level to someone who is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If a motorist who was impaired by sunlight crashed into your vehicle and hurt you, then an Augusta motor vehicle accident attorney may advise you that you’re eligible to file an injury claim against them.