Driving in low sunlight can be a daunting experience for many drivers, especially those not accustomed to it. Low sunlight can cause visibility problems that can lead to accidents and crashes. However, following some essential tips, you can easily navigate low sunlight and ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience. This article will discuss some crucial tips for driving your car in low sunlight.
Glare from low sunlight can dramatically reduce visibility. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help protect you and your passengers during low sunlight while driving.
Low sunlight or glare can be a dangerous hazard when driving your car.
1. Clean your car windscreen
Dirt and debris on your window can reduce visibility. In low light, sunlight will highlight the dirt on your windscreen, making it harder to see any hazards on the road ahead. This doesn’t just apply to the outside of your car; grease on the inside of your windscreen from fingerprints etc., can also have the same impact.
Before you set out on your journey during the winter months, ensure that your windscreen is properly cleaned inside and out and that you have an adequate level of windscreen washer in your car. You should also take the time to check your wiper blades during the winter months.
2. Wear polarized sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Always keep a spare pair of sunglasses in your car during the winter months. Polarized glasses are particularly helpful for protecting against glare and low sunlight. You can also use them to help improve visibility where there is a glare from the sun shining on wet roads.
3. Slow down
The most important step to improving safety in low light is to slow down. When visibility is low, you have less time to see approaching hazards. By slowing down, you can increase your chances of spotting a hazard, and it will reduce the damage if you are involved in an accident.
4. Avoid Driving at Sunset or Sunrise
It may not always be possible to change your timetable based on the weather conditions outside, but if you can, try to avoid driving at sunrise or sunset during the winter months.
5. Use Your Visor
Your car’s visor is designed to block the sunlight and reduce glare. Therefore, using your visor when driving in low sunlight is essential. Position your visor to block out the direct sunlight, but ensure it does not obstruct your view of the road.
6. Increase Your Following Distance
Driving in low sunlight can make it difficult to see the road ahead, especially if there is traffic or other obstacles. Therefore, increasing your following distance is essential to give yourself more time to react to unexpected situations. A good rule of thumb is maintaining a following distance of at least three seconds.
For more winter driving tips, check out our article on Tips for Driving in Winter.
