The glow of bright sunlight can turn to dangerous glare making it difficult for you to see.

What Conditions Create Glare from the Sun?

Sunshine increases visibility, but the glare caused when the sun hits your windshield can act in the opposite way, it can diminish visibility. The sun’s glare is most dangerous in the morning or late afternoon making it hard to see the road ahead and the brake lights of another vehicle.

How Can You Drive Safely in the Glare of the Sun?

As part of your pre-driving check you should always make sure that your car’s windshield is clean. Glare is worse through a dirty or scratched windshield so you should replace the windshield if it is badly scratched. Have sunglasses handy, reduce speed, increase your following distance, and adjust your sun visor to block out the sun. 

Use the SIPDE process to help you manage risk in glare situations.  Give yourself an extra margin of safety by leaving more distance between your car and other vehicles. Check carefully for pedestrians keeping in mind that others on the roadway may not be able to see as clearly. Always be alert for the sudden, careless, or unsafe actions of other drivers and pedestrians. 

Keep in mind that when the sun is behind you, oncoming drivers have the sun’s glare in their eyes and may have trouble seeing you. Drive with your low beam headlights on to make your car more visible and signal well in advance your intention to turn or change lanes.