Driving in the Sun Can Be Dangerous

For the most part, the weather in South Carolina is fairly pleasant. In summer, temperatures can soar, which means people are fully exposed to the sun.

Sunshine can encourage people to get out of the house and do things. Often, this involves a drive to the park or another meeting point with friends. It is common to associate road traffic accidents with adverse weather conditions such as storms and heavy rainfall, but the truth is, the sun can be a hazard too. In fact, research suggests that bright sunlight increases the risk of a fatal crash by 16%.

It is important to take note of the potential hazards that the sun causes. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

Keep the windshield clean

There are more reasons to keep your car clean than aesthetics. Surprisingly, keeping your windshield clean is also an important factor in terms of safety. Bright sunlight produces a glare, and this is only accentuated by dust or dirt that lays on the windshield. The cleaner your windshield is, the less impaired your vision will be.

Think about stopping distances

Even in optimal driving conditions, it is in your best interests to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. However, this is even more important if the sun is bright. If the glare from the sun’s rays is significant, then much of what is in front of you will be obscured. Depending on where the sun is located, you may make a turn and be hit by the rays. Thus, it is important to keep a safe distance in case the car in front makes a sudden stop if blinded by the sun.

Driving hazards are present in all weather conditions and it is crucial to stay prepared. If you have been involved in a road traffic collision, it may be possible for you to pursue compensation for your injuries.