Seven Effective Ways To Prevent A Sun Glare Accident

If you are a car owner, you are familiar with the frustration of the sun glaring at you while driving. 

The glare from sunlight on your vehicle’s windshield makes it difficult to see what is in front of you. 

Sun glare is disturbing and has also been responsible for several car accidents. 

This article discusses what sun glare is. Additionally, it will tell you all the effective ways of preventing sun glare accidents.

What Is Sun Glare, And When Does It Occur?

Sun glare occurs when sunlight reflects off a vehicle’s windshield. So, we can all agree that this makes it difficult for a driver to see ahead. 

Moreover, it typically occurs at sunrise and sunset. Also, it coincides with morning and evening commutes. 

It can be as dangerous to vision as heavy rain or fog, and sun-glare accidents can be very difficult to avoid.

Also, sun glare occurs when the sun sets behind the vehicle. Therefore, this can cause sunlight to reflect off the rearview mirror. 

Whether it sets in the morning, evening, or behind a vehicle, sun glare makes it hard for drivers to see ahead.

Sun glare is not a legitimate defense against liability, even if it is responsible for many accidents annually. 

When a driver is blinded by the sun and crashes into another vehicle, the court will still hold them liable for damages.

Therefore, an accident that was initially a physical and mental hazard can soon become a legal one. 

Seven Ways Of Preventing Sun Glare Accident Efficiently

While you cannot control where the sun rises and sets, you can position yourself so as not to be affected by it. 

Below are seven steps you can take to prevent being blinded by sun glare and causing an accident:

1. Wear Polarized Glasses

Investing in a good pair of polarized sunglasses is a practical step every driver should take. 

These specialized lenses are designed to cut through glare from sunlight reflecting off flat surfaces, such as: 

• Roads
• Water

This quality makes polarized glasses significantly more effective than standard sunglasses.

In fact, you can use them more effectively, particularly during early-morning and late-evening drives.

This is the time when the sun is low on the horizon. 

Make it a habit to wear them whenever you are behind the wheel to enhance your visibility and reduce eye strain. 

2. Keep Your Dashboard Clear

Maintaining a clutter-free dashboard is essential for safe driving. 

Objects placed on the dashboard can reflect sunlight. This is because it creates bright spots that can obscure your vision. 

Moreover, this reflected light can bounce off your windshield and directly into your eyes.

So, it can potentially blind you at a critical moment. 

Also, you need to regularly clear your dashboard of any unnecessary items, whether it’s:

• Documents
• Drinks
• Decorative Objects

Then, you can significantly minimize the risk of glare-related distractions while driving. 

3. Install Sun Visors

Many vehicles come equipped with standard sun visors, but these typically only offer protection from glare at specific angles. 

To enhance your defense against the sun, consider installing additional sun visors.

In fact, you can use adjustable ones that can be positioned to block sunlight from multiple angles. 

Moreover, this can be particularly beneficial during sunrise and sunset when the sun’s position makes it difficult to avoid glare. 

Additionally, you can opt for aftermarket visors.

These extend wider or are more adjustable. Therefore, they can provide a more comprehensive barrier against the sun. 

4. Ensure Zero Dirt On Your Windshield

A clean windshield is crucial for optimal visibility. Dirt, dust, and streaks can scatter sunlight, amplifying glare and reducing clarity. 

Regularly clean your windshield inside and out to ensure it is spotless before you drive. 

Utilize a high-quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth for the best results. 

A clear windshield allows for better light transmission and helps maintain your visibility, especially in bright conditions. 

5. Find A Different Route

If you find that sun glare is a consistent issue on your regular route, take the time to explore alternative paths. 

Understanding the sun’s path—rising in the east and setting in the west—can help you identify routes that might avoid direct glare. 

Apps or navigation systems that include features for avoiding sun glare can be particularly useful. 

A simple change of route might help you dodge challenging glare conditions altogether, improving both your comfort and safety while driving. 

6. Drive When Sun Glare Is Minimal

Adjusting your driving schedule can significantly impact how often you encounter troublesome sun glare. 

Try to plan your trips during times when the sun is higher in the sky—typically midday—when glare is less intense. 

Whenever possible, avoid driving in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is near the horizon and visibility is reduced. 

7. Pull Over

In cases where the sun glare becomes unbearable despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to pull over to a safe location. 

It’s better to wait until the sun shifts and the glare dissipates than to risk an accident. 

Ensure your car is parked safely out of traffic, and take a moment to relax until visibility improves. 

Prioritizing safety over convenience is always the best practice when dealing with conditions that affect your driving.

Is Sun Glare A Justified Reason For A Crash?

Sun glare does not legally excuse a driver from liability in a crash. 

Because sun glare is considered a predictable environmental condition, drivers are expected to adapt by: 

• Slowing Down
• Using Visors 
• Wearing Sunglasses 
• Pulling Over

If you are involved in a sun glare accident, you will likely be cited for driving too fast for conditions or negligence 

Learn Preventing Sun Glare Accidents Effectively

“When you crash into another vehicle, it is not your fault because the sun gets in your eyes, and you cannot see. 

Unfortunately, you will still be held liable for damages the other driver suffers. 

These tips are indispensable if you do not want to be in a jam that was not your fault.” says attorney Felix Gonzalez.

Sun glare, whether it occurs in the morning, evening, or while driving behind a vehicle, significantly impairs visibility for drivers. 

Despite contributing to numerous accidents each year, sun glare is not a valid defense in liability cases. 

If a driver is blinded by sunlight and subsequently collides with another vehicle, courts will still impose responsibility for damages. 

This means that drivers must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Also, external factors like sun glare do not absolve them of their duty to drive safely and of their accountability for their actions on the road.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. It does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal help.