Drivers warned they could face £4,700 fines in sunny weather if they ignore these little-known rules
Drivers are being warned they could be slapped with fines totalling thousands of pounds during sunny weather if they ignore little-known Highway Code rules.
Motoring experts say blazing sunshine and soaring temperatures can create dangerous conditions on the roads, especially during sunrise and sunset when glare is at its worst.
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Motorists could face penalties of up to £4,700 for offences linked to poor visibility, cracked windscreens and even wearing the wrong sunglasses, as reported by Need To Know.
Keith Hawes, director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, warned that many drivers fail to realise how risky bright sunshine can be behind the wheel.
He said: “Sun glare is one of the most underestimated hazards on the road.
“Even experienced drivers can be caught out by sudden bursts of bright light, especially during sunrise and sunset.
“Strong glare can dramatically reduce your visibility and reaction time, so taking simple precautions like keeping your windscreen clean, wearing polarised sunglasses, and increasing your following distance can make a huge difference to your safety.”
One surprising mistake could see drivers fined simply for wearing sunglasses.
Under Highway Code Rule 94, motorists are advised not to wear tinted glasses or visors if they restrict vision.
Experts warn that some sunglasses can make dashboard displays or sat-nav screens appear blacked out or dimmed – potentially distracting drivers.
Anyone caught wearing eyewear that obscures their vision could face fines of up to £100.
Drivers are also being reminded not to ignore their headlights during bright weather.
While many motorists assume headlights are only needed at night, Highway Code Rule 226 states they should be used whenever visibility is reduced, including during intense sun glare.
Failing to use headlights correctly could lead to fines of up to £1,000.
Dirty windscreens are another hidden danger during hot weather.
Dust, smears and fingerprints can worsen glare and make it harder to see the road ahead.
Under Regulation 30, motorists must always have a full view of the road and traffic ahead.
A dirty windscreen that blocks visibility could result in a £1,000 fine.
Experts are also urging drivers to slow down and leave extra stopping distance in dazzling conditions.
The Highway Code states motorists should reduce speed and leave more room in poor visibility conditions, including bright sunlight.
Drivers who fail to keep proper control of their vehicle could face penalties of up to £100.
Meanwhile, chipped windscreens could become an even bigger problem during summer heatwaves.
Experts warn that high temperatures can cause cracks and chips to spread rapidly because of thermal expansion and UV exposure.
Reflections from damaged glass can also create dangerous glare for motorists.
Under Regulation 30, cracked windscreens that impair a driver’s vision could land motorists with fines of up to £2,500.
Combined, the penalties could total a whopping £4,700.
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