Drivers could face a £5,000 fine for driving without sunglasses

Summer is officially here and most of the country is enjoying bright sunshine and high temperatures. But with the upturn in weather, drivers have been warned that they could face a fine of up to £5,000 for not wearing sunglasses when behind the wheel.

Now, it’s not technically illegal to drive without sunglasses, but you could still be considered by police to be “driving without care and attention” due to Rule 237 of the Highway Code.

The “Hot Weather” section of this law states that drivers are legally required to slow down or pull over when dazzled by bright conditions- indicating drivers should use sunglasses on a sunny day. This offence would lead to an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three points on your licence. If a driver's vision is impaired, they pose an immediate threat to themselves as well as other road users.

Drivers who challenge the initial £100 fine and lose could see this penalty increased to a staggering £5,000 depending on the severity. 

There are two essential requirements for glasses lenses when driving, your vision must remain clear and sufficient light so that you can see property must get to your eyes. A lot of sunglasses sold for general use are often too dark to drive with, so it’s important to bear this in mind.