The Vision Council of America highlights the sun as a major, often overlooked, driving hazard. Prolonged exposure to glare can cause long-term eye damage and significantly increase the risk of accidents.

“Eye care within vehicles should be given as much attention as any other risk,” emphasises Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive. “Long-term, it can significantly impact your vision while also posing a daily danger to driver safety.”

Imagine rounding a corner and being suddenly blinded by the sun. It can take up to five seconds to regain full vision, the same amount of time as the distraction caused by looking at a phone.

Here are some simple steps to protect your eyes and enhance your safety on the road:

• Wear polarised sunglasses: Reduce glare and protect your eyes from long-term sun damage.

• Invest in prescription sunglasses: If you wear glasses, ensure your sunglasses incorporate your prescription.

• Anticipate glare: If you drive the same routes regularly, identify areas with significant glare and adjust your sun visors accordingly.

• Clean your windscreen: Clean both the inside and outside of your windscreen to prevent glare from reflections.

• Address windscreen damage: Scratches, cracks, and chips can scatter sunlight and impair visibility.

• Take regular breaks: Prevent eye strain and fatigue during long drives.

• Undergo regular eye tests: Aim for annual eye exams, or at least every two years. Passing the driving licence eye test only confirms you meet minimum requirements, not that your vision is optimal for safe driving.

• Address underlying health conditions: Regular health screenings can identify conditions that may affect your vision.

• Minimise night glare: Look slightly to the left of oncoming traffic to reduce headlight glare.

• Use appropriate eyewear: Consider anti-glare coatings for night driving, but avoid sunglasses or yellow lenses at night.

By following these simple tips, you can significantly improve your eye health and safety while driving.

Source: MotorPress