Dangerous 'Sunset Driving' Trend Kills 25, Injures 2,895 on UK Roads
Drivers across the UK are facing a perilous trend on the roads, with thousands urged to follow simple safety steps after alarming new data revealed the deadly impact of poor visibility. The Department for Transport has released figures showing that in 2023 alone, 2,895 people were injured and 25 killed in crashes directly linked to dazzling sunlight during sunset hours.
Experts Warn of Underestimated Risks
Matt Clamp, customer service manager at Scrap Car Comparison, explained that motorists often gravely underestimate the hazards of so-called "sunset driving". He stated, "When sunset lines up with rush hour, it creates more challenging and potentially dangerous driving conditions. You've got busy roads, tired drivers and the sun sitting directly at eye level. Even a few seconds of glare can mean you don't spot a brake light or someone stepping into the road straight away."
Clamp emphasized that a drive that felt comfortable weeks earlier may now position the sun directly in a driver's line of sight, with many failing to anticipate how blinding that glare can truly be. Experts note that unlike midday sunshine, low sun shines straight into drivers' eyes, significantly reducing contrast and impairing depth perception.
Most Affected Drivers and Practical Solutions
"Drivers heading west in the early evening are most likely to be affected because they're travelling directly towards the setting sun," Mr. Clamp highlighted. To combat this dangerous glare, he urged all motorists to keep a decent pair of polarised sunglasses in their vehicles, which can cut glare dramatically.
He advised, "Keep them within easy reach, such as in the door pocket or drinks holder, so you're not rummaging around for them after you've already been dazzled." Additionally, maintaining a clear windscreen is crucial, as dirt and streaks on the inside of the glass can make the glare much worse.
Other essential tips include:
- Easing off the accelerator and leaving more space between vehicles when the sun affects your view, providing extra reaction time.
- Using a cap to block that strip of direct sunlight that sometimes slips past the visor, a simple yet effective measure.
- Anticipating changing conditions as seasons shift, adjusting driving habits accordingly.
The Department for Transport data serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of sun glare, urging all drivers to take proactive steps to enhance safety during sunset hours.
