Drivers warned over sunglasses that could land them with penalty points
British dash cam manufacturer Nextbase is urging motorists to be cautious about the type of sunglasses they wear while driving, as the wrong pair could result in penalty points and a hefty fine. With the UK experiencing a wet and unpredictable summer, many drivers have been reaching for their shades during the June heatwave. While wearing sunglasses in bright conditions is generally recommended by safety experts, certain tints can be deemed illegal for road use.
Sunglasses categories explained
Sunglasses are classified into categories ranging from zero to four, based on the amount of light they transmit. Category two glasses, which transmit between 18% and 43% of light, are suitable for daytime driving. However, category four lenses, which transmit only 3% to 8% of light, are too dark and are illegal for driving. By law, these must be labelled as unsuitable for road use.
Drivers should also avoid glasses with wide side arms that obstruct peripheral vision, as these can be considered dangerous. Using inappropriate eyewear could lead to a charge of careless or dangerous driving in the event of a crash, resulting in penalty points and fines.
Expert advice on safe driving eyewear
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.”
Wilson added: “Sunglasses are labelled in four categories to show if they’re suitable for road use. The average pair of sunnies are ‘category two’ and are therefore appropriate for driving. However, darker sunglasses in ‘category four’, any small fashion glasses, yellow tinted glasses or a pair with large side arms can be deemed too dangerous to drive in.”
Practical steps for motorists
To stay safe and legal, drivers are advised to check the category label on their sunglasses before hitting the road. Keeping a spare pair of category two glasses in the glove compartment is a simple precaution. With the UK's unpredictable weather, being prepared for sudden sunshine can prevent both accidents and legal trouble.
