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Shining Sun Can Create Driving Hazard For Westchester Commuters, AAA Says

Enjoying a drive on a beautiful sunny day is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon, but drivers should be aware that glaring sunshine can also create a hazard, according to AAA.

Driving when the sun is glaring can be dangerous.

Driving when the sun is glaring can be dangerous.

Photo Credit: Clarkstown Police Department/Facebook

Just after sunrise and before sunset the sun can shine directly into drivers’ eyes, creating a glare that can make it much harder to see the road ahead and potential hazards, AAA added.

Officials with AAA said if sun glare is a problem, slow down and utilize the following tips to help enjoy the drive:

  • Don't think sunglasses are silly. A good pair of polarized sunglasses can be an essential safety tool year round. They won’t give you perfect vision, but they are your best first step.
  • Use your sun visor – it can help to block out the sun. In addition, you can increase its effectiveness with mini-visors that allow you to fill the gap not covered by your main visor. Some are see-through, which helps to filter out glare while still allowing the driver to see through them. 
  • Leave more following room – when the sun is in your eyes it can be hard to see what the car ahead is doing. 
  • Drive with your headlights on to increase your visibility to other drivers.
  • Keep your windshield clean, inside and out, and clean before you drive. Using your car’s windshield cleaning device during the drive leaves drops of washer fluid on it, which reflect the sun, making it harder to see.
  • Check your windshield for pitting and cracks.
  • Avoid storing papers or other items on the dashboard. Anything with a shiny surface, including paper, can add to trouble seeing well. Store items in the glove compartment.
  • If having a difficult time seeing the road, use lane markings to help guide you.

Rarely will visibility be perfect while driving, but if drivers know this and make the proper adjustments, they can minimize any added risks that come with less-than-optimal conditions.

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