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Low sun and reflected glare can make it harder to see the road. Suitable sunglasses, clean glass and a plan for changing visibility belong in your preparation before you drive.
Keep a suitable pair within easy reach before you set off. If you need to search for or swap glasses, stop somewhere safe first. These small preparations support the observation habits we practise in driving lessons for safer day-to-day decisions.
Check that your sunglasses suit driving
The darkest lens is not automatically the best choice. Read the label and ask an optometrist about the conditions you drive in, particularly if you need prescription lenses or use lenses that change tint.
The ACCC Product Safety sunglasses guide explains the lens categories. It warns that category 4 sunglasses must never be used for driving, and recommends avoiding categories 1 and 4 for driving. Sunglasses can reduce your ability to see in low light, so reassess them as conditions change.
If you use prescription glasses to drive, sunglasses need to work with your vision requirements. Do not swap them for an ordinary pair that leaves you unable to see clearly. Ask about glare reduction and check that you can read the vehicle's displays with the lenses you choose.
Before setting off
- Clean the windscreen inside and out.
- Check washers, wipers and the sun visor.
- Have windscreen damage assessed rather than ignoring it.
- Keep loose or reflective objects off the dashboard.
- Set up your glasses before the car moves.
As the light changes
- Adjust speed and leave more space.
- Look for people and vehicles that glare may hide.
- Allow for shade, tunnels and a low sun ahead.
- Stop safely if you cannot see well enough to continue.
The original article included a Rightway Driving School sunglasses giveaway and a March 2015 prize draw. Those offers have ended.