All UK drivers urged to watch out for 'deadly' danger this week

Drivers all over the UK are being urged to watch out for a certain hazard that's even more 'deadly' than black ice. Now that the wintery weather is over, you might think there's less dangers on the roads - but this isn't always the case.

But as brighter mornings and evenings return, and with the UK continuing its warm weather this week, drivers are being urged to take extra care behind the wheel to protect themselves from the risks of sun glare. Although it might not seem like a big deal, dazzling sun can cause fatal accidents. To keep drivers safe, Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, is encouraging motorists to make a few simple checks before setting off.

Bright and low sun can quickly reduce visibility and make it harder to judge distances, spot hazards, and react safely. The Highway Code states that if a driver is dazzled by bright sunlight, they should slow down and stop if necessary.

National Highways also advises motorists to carry sunglasses in bright conditions, but warns that category 4 lenses are unsuitable for driving because they are too dark.

These glasses only let through between 3% to 8% of visible light since they are designed for glacier walking and snowboarding.

Mike explained: "Sunglasses are an essential tool for reducing sun glare while driving. However, it's important to choose the right pair for safety.

"Standard dark lenses can block too much light, impairing visibility and making it harder to distinguish objects in low light. Instead, opt for sunglasses with polarised lenses, which reduce glare without overly darkening the surroundings.

He continued: "Polarised lenses filter horizontal light, helping to reduce the intense reflections from roads and vehicles. Always ensure your sunglasses comply with UK driving standards, avoiding overly dark lenses that could hinder visibility in shaded or low-light conditions."

Sun glare can catch drivers out in seconds, especially during early morning and late afternoon journeys when the sun sits lower in the sky.

While many motorists think of rain, fog, or ice as the biggest visibility issues, bright sunlight can be just as dangerous if you are not prepared for it.

How to drive safely in the sun

As well as wearing the appropriate sunglasses, drivers should also try to keep the dashboard clear of any reflective objects, as this can distract you if the sun hits them.

Now is a good time to check over your wiper blades too, and if they're worn out or broken, make sure to replace them. Damaged blades can make smears on the windscreen worse, which isn't good for visibility.

And finally, remember that other drivers may be suffering from the blinding effects of glare, even if you aren't. Try to keep a constant speed and stay a safe distance away from the vehicle ahead of you.