Should you drive with sunglasses during the day?

Some South African motorists’ eyes are more sensitive to light than those of others. In sunny South Africa, the sun’s glare and blinding dazzling objects pose challenges to any motorist. Join us as we explore the need for driving with sunglasses during the day. 1

Your eyes are of paramount importance1

It’s obvious, but good eyesight is critical to safe driving. That’s why motorists in South Africa have their eyesight tested every 5 years. Anything that can interfere with eyesight, such as bright light and dust, should be addressed. That’s why it is considered necessary that sunglasses should be worn when driving.

What kind of sunglasses should you use? 1

Like anything else, there are sunglasses and sunglasses. Buy right the first time by obtaining good quality sunglasses. Polarised lenses protect your eyes optimally by eliminating the powerful and harmful UV rays. Although the average pair of sunglasses don’t enclose the eyes completely, they still protect the eyes from dust particles and other small flying debris. Motorbikers wear special sunglasses that completely cover their eyes to prevent debris from flying into their eyes at high speed.

High glare can be dangerous1

The sun’s glare on some days can be so bright that too much light is getting through to the retina, which in turn causes you to squint your eyes. The latter can cause headaches and can impair vision. Wearing sunglasses would solve this problem.

What to look for when buying sunglasses1

UV protection is a key factor to consider. Lenses should eliminate 99-100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays. Look out for the label ‘UV-40’ on the glasses. Polarised glasses are highly effective in minimising glare from snow, glass, or any shiny surface.

What about the colour of sunglasses? 1

Tinted lenses are great as they absorb light entering them. The best colours for driving are neutral grey, brown or yellow. Yellow lenses contrast differences in colour, whilst enhancing light under low light conditions. Avoid using green, pink, and blue colours.

Does it matter it matter if lenses are made of glass or plastic? 1

No, it does not, but plastic lenses are more durable from wear and tear and are lighter to wear compared to their glass counterparts. Preferably choose unbreakable polycarbonate material for the lenses.

Can old sunglasses cause problems? 1

Old sunglasses can lose their efficacy in blocking out harmful UV rays and thus can cause retinal damage, macular degeneration, and cataracts over time. Poor sunglasses can also cause pain in the eyes’ muscles. Contact lenses do afford UV protection, but sunglasses should still be worn when outside.

Look after your children’s eyes1

So often, when going onto a beach, where the sun’s glare can be extreme, parents are seen wearing sunglasses but not the little children. Their eyes require as much protection as do those of adults’.

Sources:

1. 1. Safety guide – How a pair of sunglasses can ensure safe driving?