Drivers told they must have ‘one item’ in car this Saturday

Motorists must have one item in their car this weekend with temperatures set to soar as the UK hot weather continues. Experts from across the motoring industry have warned of the importance of keeping sunglasses inside a vehicle in hot weather. Sunglasses aren’t just a style item, with the vital eye protection potentially life-saving while behind the wheel.

Data shows that thousands of accidents every year are down to drivers being dazzled by the sun, making it a serious safety concern. Road users who are unable to see the road correctly could be at risk of striking road hazards or being hit with motoring fines. Will Pringle, truck expert at Smith Bros stressed road users should be using sun visors and sunglasses as much as possible while in control of a vehicle.

Will said: “When the sun is shining there is a bigger risk of your vision being impaired by sunlight causing glare on your screen.

“This can be distracting and can also result in delayed reaction times. If you feel the sunlight is too blinding and causing reduced visibility, you should slow down or pull over for a break.

“Always make use of sun visors and where possible wear polarised sunglasses. These will reduce the glare, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, and make it easier to drive.”

Data from the Department for Transport (DfT) shows there were 1,770 reported road collisions where dazzling sun was a contributory factor in vision.

It means thousands could be at risk as the UK heatwave continues well into the weekend.

According to the Met Office, temperatures will hit 30 celsius in London on Thursday before climbing to a blistering 31 Celsius on Saturday.

Motoring experts at Bumper stressed road users could even be in trouble with the law if they don’t protect themselves.

Although there is no law stating that road users need to wear sunglasses while behind the wheel, the Highway Code makes clear motorists should stop if they become dazzled.

Failing to follow this could see officials deeming road users to be driving without due care and attention.

This will carry a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points but could be as much as £5,000 if police decide a dangerous driving charge is more appropriate.

Bumper explained: “Being dazzled by the sun and continuing to drive without slowing down could be seen as reckless. You don’t need to be in a crash for it to be a legal issue — the risk alone can result in a penalty.”