SUNGLASSES FOR SAFETY

Sunglasses Are More Than Just A Fashion Accessory When It Comes To Winter Motoring

There are plenty of winter motoring dangers but one of them - the dazzling sun at certain times of the day - is easy to deal with.

In winter, the sun rises and sets at peak travel periods, generally at around 8am and 5pm. The effect of this is that, during rush hour, drivers can find themselves dazzled as they are driving directly into the glare of the sun that is too low to be shielded by the sun visor.

Early morning frost and snow can exacerbate the situation. Countless accidents are caused by motorists who struggle on despite being blinded by the sun.

Useful tips:

* Drivers should always carry a pair of sunglasses in the car. Sunglasses with polarised lenses are a very good idea as they reduce the amount of reflection from wet and shiny roads.

* For drivers who wear glasses, photochromic lenses are particularly recommended as they block the amount of light that passes through to the eye, absorb UV rays and automatically darken in the sun.

* You should slow down or stop if you find that the sun is hindering your vision, even if you are familiar with the road.

*• Keeping your windscreen clear and smear-free can also help reduce the effects of winter glare.



Melanie Denny of the recovery organisation Green Flag agrees. "...