Drivers in Cornwall Warned About Rush Hour Sunset Glare

Rush Hour Warning: Sunset Glare Could Catch Cornwall Drivers Out

Drivers in Cornwall are being urged to take extra care on the roads this week as sunset lines up with the evening commute, creating conditions where low sun glare could significantly affect visibility.

Figures from the Department for Transport show that 2,895 people were injured and 25 were killed across the UK in crashes linked to dazzling sun in 2023, the most recent year for which data is available.

With the sun setting at around 6.10pm in Cornwall this week, many motorists travelling home from work will be driving directly into intense low sunlight during peak traffic.

Why sunset glare can be dangerous

Low sun sits directly in a driver’s line of sight, which can drastically reduce visibility and make it harder to see brake lights, traffic signals or pedestrians crossing the road.

Matt Clamp, Customer Service Manager at Scrap Car Comparison, said drivers often underestimate the risks of what is known as sunset driving.

“When sunset lines up with rush hour, it creates more challenging and potentially dangerous driving conditions,” Matt says. “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.”

Matt also explained that the shifting time of sunset during this part of the year can catch drivers off guard.

“A drive that felt comfortable a few weeks ago may now put the sun directly in your line of sight. Drivers don’t always anticipate how blinding that glare can be.”

Reduced visibility and slower reactions

Unlike midday sunshine, low sun shines straight into drivers’ eyes, reducing contrast and affecting depth perception.

“It only takes a couple of seconds of being dazzled to miss something important,” Matt explains. “If you’re driving straight into the sun and the car ahead brakes or someone steps into the road, your ability to react can be seriously reduced.”

Wet wintry roads can also worsen the situation by reflecting sunlight back upward.

Matt added that drivers heading west during the early evening are most likely to face the strongest glare because they are travelling directly towards the setting sun.

Tips to help drivers stay safe

Matt said there are several simple steps drivers can take to reduce the risks:

Keep sunglasses in the car
“A decent pair of polarised sunglasses can cut glare significantly,” he says. “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.”

Use your sun visor properly
“Most drivers have a visor but don’t adjust it soon enough. Lower it before the glare becomes a problem. If your visor has a side extension, use it.”

Clean your windscreen
“Dirt and streaks on the inside of the glass can make glare much worse. A quick clean can make a noticeable difference to how clearly you can see.”

Slow down and leave more space
“If the sun is affecting your view, ease off the accelerator and leave more space between you and the car in front. That will give you more time to react.”

Consider wearing a peaked cap
“It sounds simple, but a cap can block that strip of direct sunlight that sometimes slips past the visor.”

As daylight hours continue to shift, Scrap Car Comparison is urging drivers to check sunset times and adjust their driving accordingly.