Don't let the sun go down on you
Published Date:
18 April 2008
By Andy Thomas
Now the clocks have gone forward it is time to talk about the relevant hazards which may catch newer drivers by surprise.
These hazards should not present any problems for the more experienced driver, but it is obvious from the recent collisions in the area that even 'normal' conditions can lead to danger. That is something I will write about in more detail next week.
As the evenings get lighter for longer, the first hazard that newer drivers may be unfamiliar with is the low-lying sun. Although the sun's rays will not appear very strong, they can be very bright and easily dazzle road users.
Anyone who drives along Warwick Street towards the fire station after work will be familiar with the problem, as will people on the A46 driving towards Longbridge roundabout from the Coventry direction.
Driving the other way can be just as hazardous: as although the rear view mirror can be seen through clearly, looking through the door mirrors can dazzle when the sun gets down to the right height.
These situations will obviously also present problems in the mornings as well, for vehicles travelling in the opposite direction.
Sunglasses can be an obvious solution to avoid being dazzled, as can using the sun visor in the car, although I know that for many people this is of no use when the sun gets very low.
You will have to anticipate the possibility of having the sun in your eyes when turning into a road towards it, or going over the top of a hill, as this is when it is more likely to take you by surprise.
You can often anticipate this by seeing the direction shadows on the road are coming from. Recently we have been getting showers of rain whilst the sun is out, or the sun has come out soon afterwards.
In situations like this, the visor will be of no use, however tall you are. The sunlight is reflected off the wet road surface, dazzling you but also making the road markings difficult, if not impossible, to see.
As with all things related to driving, if you cannot see very clearly, or very far down the road, reduce speed and take extra care.
The full article contains 380 words and appears in Leamington Courier newspaper.
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Last Updated:
22 April 2008 8:42 AM
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Source:
Leamington Courier
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Location:
Leamington Spa