In the early days of spring, the bright sun becomes an every-day risk for drivers, a point highlighted by automotive expert Anton Troshanov. The glare can catch a driver off guard, slicing through the windshield and washing out details on the road ahead. This is more than just a nuisance; it can quickly translate into a loss of control, especially when a driver is cruising toward a curve or maneuvering through busy traffic. The glare doesn’t just dazzle the eyes—it creates a momentary blind spot that makes it hard to judge distances, spot pedestrians, or see vehicles approaching from the side. The risk rises as days lengthen and the sun climbs higher in the sky, turning what should be a routine drive into a delicate balancing act between visibility and reaction time.
The expert notes that when glare hits, normal driving becomes precarious. The driver may not be able to anticipate what is happening on the right and left, and braking hard could invite a rear-end collision from a car following too closely. In such moments, the safest move is to slow down gradually and ease the vehicle toward the edge of the roadway, creating space and reducing the chances of an abrupt stop that could surprise other motorists. The emphasis is on controlled deceleration and strategic positioning rather than sudden movements that heighten risk for everyone nearby.
If the sun blinds a driver while looking straight ahead, the recommended approach is to shift focus to the edge of the roadway through the right or left side of the windshield. By glancing toward the periphery, vision typically returns more quickly, allowing a controlled, deliberate reduction in speed and a safer pull-off. This technique helps reestablish situational awareness, reorient the vehicle’s path, and ensure a steady, gradual stop rather than a panic stop. The same principle applies when glare from oncoming traffic creates a temporary blind spot—look away from the glare, re-scan the sides, and then proceed with the plan to slow down and reposition.
Spring can be a reminder to check sunglasses or eyewear, especially as daylight grows stronger with each passing day. For many drivers in North America, a good pair of polarized sunglasses serves as a practical line of defense against sun-induced impairments. Keeping eyewear within easy reach and ensuring lenses are properly tinted for the current conditions helps maintain consistent vision and reaction times when on the road. A proactive approach to eye protection, paired with adaptive driving habits, can make spring driving safer for everyone on the road.
- Driving guidance and tips on glare management are often discussed in automotive media and safety programs to help drivers adapt to changing light conditions.
To stay safer behind the wheel, motorists should remember that sunny days demand extra caution. Short sighs of relief—when visibility returns after a glare—do not replace careful driving. The best practice remains to reduce speed early, keep doors and mirrors clear of glare, and maintain a steady, predictable trajectory. This mindset helps prevent surprises for other drivers and pedestrians and supports smoother, more confident driving as spring unfolds across North America.