As the UK basks in the first real glimpses of sunshine, Brits are heading straight to Google with a burning question: Can you wear sunglasses while driving?
Google searches in the UK for ‘can you wear sunglasses while driving’, ‘is it illegal to wear sunglasses while driving’ and ‘are you allowed to wear sunglasses while driving’ have all increased by 5,000% in the last month. What’s more, searches for ‘sunglasses driving law’ are up 350%, too.
Experts from breakdown cover provider ALA Insurance share the top things drivers need to know now that the sun is starting to make an appearance across the UK.
Charlotte Adams from ALA comments, “Sunglasses might be a stylish driving companion, but wearing the wrong pair or forgetting to wear them when needed could put you at risk of fines or accidents. As we welcome the sunny days of spring, drivers need to check their shades, stay safe, and enjoy the open road without a hitch.
The Wrong Shades Could Land You a Fine
“Not all sunglasses are created equal when it comes to driving. Category 4 sunglasses, designed for extreme sunlight, are too dark and illegal for road use. If your shades are too tinted and impair your vision, you could face a fine of up to £5,000 for careless driving.”
Take Them Off in a Tunnel
“Your eyes take time to adjust from bright sunlight to dim lighting, which can make tunnels difficult to navigate in the brighter months. If you don’t remove your sunglasses in time, you could be at risk of dangerously reduced visibility, potentially leading to an accident or a fine.”
Not Wearing Sunglasses Could Also Result in a Fine
“If you’re dazzled by the sun and fail to take precautions, like wearing appropriate sunglasses or using your sun visor, you could be hit with a £1,000 fine and three points on your licence for ‘driving without due care and attention’ and breaking rule 237 of The Highway Code.”
Spring Low Sun Trap
“Spring doesn’t just bring sunshine; it also brings low sun angles that create intense glare, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. This glare can reflect off wet roads after April showers, turning your commute into a blinding nightmare – meaning that wearing your sunglasses is important at these times.”
Hayfever Hazards
“Spring isn’t all sunshine, it’s also peak hay fever season. Pollen-laden breezes can cause itchy eyes and sneezing fits behind the wheel. A lesser-known perk of sunglasses? They act as a barrier against pollen, reducing irritation and helping you stay focused on the road.”
“So, while wearing sunglasses while driving is not illegal, wearing the wrong type of sunglasses or failing to take them off in dim conditions could get you fined or penalised under careless driving laws.”
For more tips and tricks on staying safe while driving, visit ALA Insurance.