Driving hazards at this time of year

 Sun Blindness or Sunstrike

Sunstrike can occur at any time during the day, but is most likely during sunrise or sunset, when the sun’s rays hit your windscreen at a low angle.
To avoid a crash, follow the simple guidelines shown below.

Reducing the danger of sunstrike

• Be prepared for possible sunstrike when driving at sunrise or sunset, especially when turning or driving towards the sun.
• Be especially careful in the autumn and winter months, when sunstrike is more likely to occur because the sun is lower in the sky.
• Keep your windscreen clean, inside and out. Dust and dirt on the windscreen can make the effects of sun blindness much worse.
• Check your windscreen washer container and top up if necessary.
• Always carry a cloth in your car for cleaning the windscreen.
• Wear sunglasses when driving with the sun in your eyes.
• Use your car's sun visors to block the sun.
• If you experience sunstrike, it may be best to pull over and wait for a few minutes until your eyes adjust or visibility improves. Remember if you can't see where you are going: Stop.
• Be careful if snow has fallen and the sky is clear – sunlight shining on snow can cause 'snow blindness', which produces similar effects to sunstrike.

For more information on driving safely check out my website. www.duignan.ie
Declan Duignan