Sunglasses driving rule that could cost motorists £5,000 this summer
Experts are warning drivers about a hidden sunglasses rule that could result in them being hit with a hefty fine if broken. Thousands of motorists are unaware that wearing certain types of sunglasses whilst behind the wheel is actually illegal.
And with extended British sunshine creating challenging road glare conditions for road users, Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, has highlighted the legal duties drivers face when driving in summer.
He said: "The fundamental legal principle here is straightforward – drivers have positive obligations under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to maintain clear vision and full control of their vehicle at all times.
"Highway Code Rules 93 and 237 specifically address these duties, and failure to comply can result not only in penalties but also legal liability and potential impact on insurance claims."
Rule 93 states that drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres, whilst Rule 237 requires drivers to slow down or stop if dazzled by bright sunlight.
Daniel added: "Contrary to popular belief, the issue isn't simply about following product guidelines – it's about meeting your legal duty of care.
"In my assessment, any eyewear that impairs your ability to assess road conditions, spot hazards, or react appropriately could constitute a breach of these fundamental obligations."
The penalties reflect the seriousness with which the law treats vision-related driving offences. Motorists face charges of careless driving under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which can result in fixed penalties of £100, three penalty points, or in court proceedings, fines reaching £5,000 and up to nine penalty points.
"If inappropriate eyewear contributes to an accident, drivers may face increased legal liability and insurance complications, as they've potentially failed to meet their statutory duty of care."
The legal obligations work both ways, creating what experts describes as a "careful balancing act" for drivers.
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Failing to wear appropriate eyewear when bright sunlight creates dangerous conditions can equally result in penalties for driving without due care and attention.
Daniel said: "Generally speaking, the law requires drivers to take reasonable precautions to maintain safe vision.
"This means planning ahead – keeping suitable eyewear accessible and being prepared to adjust or remove it as conditions change."
Caution is advised as some sunglasses may be deemed inappropriate due to their tint level.
UK regulation requires all sunglasses to be categorised and labelled with a category number that indicates the strength of the tint and the appropriate time of day for their use, which ranges from zero to four.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: "Carrying a spare pair of legal sunglasses in your glove box is essential during these brighter months especially in the UK when we don't know when the sun will appear.
"Wearing the right pair of sunglasses will help keep yourself and other road users safe this summer - inappropriate eyewear could put you at risk of fines, penalty points or worse.
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