British drivers risk £5,000 fine and could break Highway Code rule for wearing the wrong sunglasses
Experts have warned drivers of wearing the wrong sunglasses in the summer sun
PA
Drivers are being warned to ensure they have the correct sunglasses when on the road this week or they could face huge fines during the warm weather.
Millions of drivers are likely to make longer journeys this week to make the most of the warm weather as experts forecast temperatures to hit more than 30C.
However, while drivers enjoy the sunshine and warm weather, experts are warning drivers to wear the correct clothing and accessories to keep themselves safe and avoid massive fines.
Rule 237 of the Highway Code states that drivers should keep their vehicles well-ventilated to avoid drowsiness in hot weather.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers could be hit with a maximum fine worth £5,000 GETTYIt also calls on drivers to ensure that if they are dazzled by bright sunlight, they should slow down and if necessary, stop.
With rain forecast later in the week, drivers have also been warned of road surfaces becoming slippier than usual when it rains after a dry spell, with the surface becoming softer, potentially impacting steering and braking.
Automotive experts at Motor Match have now called on drivers to avoid breaking these Highway Code rules when wearing sunglasses to avoid being slapped with fines.
They said: "Most sunglasses fall into the 'Category 2' classification, indicating they feature a 'light tint' and allow light transmission between 18 and 43 per cent, making them appropriate for driving.
"'Category 4’ sunglasses, on the other hand, aren’t recommended for driving, as they transmit as little as three per cent of light, resulting in darkness that impairs proper vision on the road.”
They highlighted how drivers should not wear "category 4" sunglasses to combat the bright sunlight as these will not be as effective as other sunglasses.
Motorists who are seen to be driving dangerously could be slapped with 11 penalty points on their licence, as well as an unlimited fine.
This could be as high as £5,000 in a magistrates court, with prison sentences of up to five years being handed out in extreme situations.
The majority of shops will carry "Category 2" sunglasses as experts call on drivers to keep a car in their car when the weather improves.
"Category 4" sunglasses are generally recommended for activities in extreme conditions, especially at high altitudes.
Drivers should also be aware of the Met Office issuing two yellow weather warnings for Wednesday, July 31, and Thursday, August 1, for thunderstorms impacting most of England and parts of Wales.
It warns that Britons could experience difficult driving conditions and some road closures with spray and sudden flooding potentially taking place over the two days.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Drivers should ensure that they are wearing the correct glasses in the car
PA
The Met Office advises drivers to "give themselves the best chance of avoiding delays" by checking road conditions and amending travel plans if necessary.
Drivers have been told that the two yellow weather warnings have a very low likelihood but a medium impact.
You may like
