Winter Safety: Driving in Sun Glare

Sneaky weather hazards are weather events that can sneak up on you and can cause big impacts and make travel difficult without making big news. One of those sneaky weather hazards is sun glare. Unfortunately, during the winter months, sun glare can be at its worst, happening right during the morning and evening commute. Here are tips to keep you safe when this hazard sneaks up on you:

What is sun glare? When the sun is low in the horizon, the angle of the direct sunlight creates a strong glare across the windshield. The bright light can cause temporary blindness that distorts traffic control devices and makes it difficult to see the cars around you. Any snowfall could also make it extra bright and even harder to see when the sun glare is occurring.

Tips for driving during sun glare:

• Keep your windshield clean on the inside and out
• Check your windshield for pitting and cracks
• Avoid storing papers or other items on the dashboard
• Use sunglasses as they can help reduce the glare, especially polarized sunglasses
• Utilize your sun visor as it can block out the sun
• Leave more following room since it can be hard to see what the car ahead of you is doing
• Drive with your headlights on to increase your visibility to other drivers
• If having a hard time seeing the road, use lane markings to help guide you

Sun glare while driving is unavoidable, but these simple tips can help keep you and your family safe when it does occur.

Source: NWS, AAA
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