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Low sun (autumn and winter)

During autumn and winter, the sun sits lower in the sky, often creating intense glare that can temporarily blind drivers. This makes it difficult to see the road ahead, other vehicles, and vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. To stay safe, it’s important to prepare your vehicle, adjust your driving, and protect your vision.

Prepare your vehicle

• Keep windows clean: dirt, smudges, and a hazy film on the inside of your windscreen intensify glare.
• Maintain wiper blades: replace worn or old blades to keep your view clear in wet or frosty weather.
• Use winter screen wash: top up washer fluid with a winter strength additive to prevent freezing and ensure effective cleaning.
• Check your lights: make sure all lights are clean and working properly so you can see, and be seen.

Adjust your driving

• Reduce your speed: slowing down helps you react safely to sudden hazards.
• Increase following distance: leave extra room to avoid sudden braking if the driver ahead is dazzled.
• Boost your visibility: use dipped headlights during the day to make your vehicle more noticeable.

Protect your vision

• Wear sunglasses: keep a pair of polarised sunglasses in your car to reduce glare.
• Use your sun visor: position it effectively to block direct sunlight.
• Avoid sudden stops: drive smoothly; sudden braking could cause a collision if a driver behind is blinded by the sun.

Be aware of others

• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists: they are harder to see in low light and glare.
• Consider oncoming traffic: other drivers may be dazzled, so take extra care when turning or overtaking.
• Pull over safely if needed: if glare is so strong you can’t see clearly, stop in a safe location and wait until conditions improve.