Motoring experts have warned that bright sunshine and high temperatures can increase the risk of glare-related incidents, cracked windscreens and poor visibility, raising the chances of falling foul of several Highway Code rules.
Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: “Sun glare is one of the most underestimated hazards on the road.
“Even experienced drivers can be caught out by sudden bursts of bright light, especially during sunrise and sunset.
“Strong glare can dramatically reduce your visibility and reaction time, so taking simple precautions like keeping your windscreen clean, wearing polarised sunglasses, and increasing your following distance can make a huge difference to your safety.”
Wearing the wrong type of sunglasses is just one of the surprising ways drivers could be fined.
Highway Code Rule 94 advises against using tinted glasses or visors if they restrict vision, and certain sunglasses can darken dashboard displays or sat-nav screens, making them difficult to read and potentially distracting.
If police determine that eyewear has obscured a driver’s view, it could result in a £100 fine.
Headlight use is another area where motorists may fall short during sunny spells.
Highway Code Rule 226 states that headlights should be used whenever visibility is reduced, which includes bright glare from the sun, not just darkness or adverse weather.
Failing to comply could lead to fines of up to £1,000.
Windscreens are another focus, as dust, smears and fingerprints can worsen glare and block a driver’s view.
Regulation 30 requires drivers to have a clear, unobstructed view of the road at all times.
A dirty windscreen that reduces visibility could result in a £1,000 fine.
Chipped or cracked windscreens can also become more hazardous during hot weather, as high temperatures may cause the damage to spread rapidly due to thermal expansion.
Reflections from cracked glass can worsen glare, further reducing visibility.
Under the same Regulation 30, driving with a cracked windscreen that impairs your view could lead to a fine of up to £2,500.
Drivers are also reminded to slow down and increase stopping distance when glare is severe.
The Highway Code recommends reducing speed and leaving extra space in poor visibility, including in bright sunlight.
Failing to maintain proper control in these conditions could result in a £100 penalty.
