Protecting Yourself When Driving into the Direction of the Sun

glass debris on road

As we rapidly approach the winter season, the days get much shorter, which means so, too, do the hours of daylight. For this reason, many of us now find ourselves driving during the sunrise and/or sunset. When the sun is lower in the sky, the light can feel blinding. The glare caused by the sun can play a big role in causing accidents – and sometimes making them worse. After all, if you are blinded by the sun’s glare, it’s more than likely that those around you are as well. 

Since changing the time of day that we are driving to or from work is likely not an option, you must consider other ways to keep yourself and those around you safe. While it’s imperative that you wear sunglasses during these times (it’s a great idea to keep a pair in your vehicle at all times) and pull down your sun visor, there are other things that you can do to improve your safety. Here are a few ways in which you can protect yourself when driving into the direction of the sun. 

  1. Make sure that you slow down. 

One of the smartest things that you can do in any situation in which there are hazardous driving conditions is to slow down. By lowering the speed at which you drive, you are allowing for more space in between you and the vehicle in front of you. Therefore, should you have to stop abruptly, you have the space – and therefore the time – to react without crashing into the back of the preceding vehicle. 

  1. Ensure that your headlights are turned on.  

As mentioned, if you are having difficulty seeing due to the sun’s glare, it’s more than likely that those around you are facing the same issue. Therefore, it’s a good idea to increase your visibility to those around you by turning on your headlights – even during the day. When you turn your headlights on, it automatically turns on your taillights, also helping those behind you to see your vehicle more easily. 

  1. Be sure that your windshield – both inside and outside – is clean. 

It doesn’t take much for our windshields to start becoming dirty. Between rain, windshield wipers, and other debris, our windshields become so regularly dirty that we stop noticing after a while. Those smudges and streaks on the windshield will become more visible when the sunlight hits your windshield. This only further obstructs your vision. That’s why you should always make sure that your windshield inside and outside of your vehicle remains clean. 

  1. Don’t hesitate to pull over whenever necessary. 

You may try to avoid this as much as possible, but sometimes it’s in the best interest of your own safety (and that of others) for you to pull your car over safely. If you can pull into a parking lot, better yet. But by pulling your vehicle over, you may be a few minutes late, but you’ll be much likelier to get where you’re going in one piece. 

MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured in a Motor Vehicle Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, it can greatly impact your life. It can be difficult enough to deal with your substantial injuries, but it can be even harder when you are left to pick up the pieces financially. You should never have to pay the price for someone else’s mistakes. 

At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of personal injury accidents and understand the effects that such accidents often have on just about all aspects of your life. We will always act in your best interest. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Posted in: Automobile Accidents, Personal Injury