Essential tips for safe driving in hot, sunny conditions

by Lorraine Williamson
driving when it is hot and sunny

As summer temperatures soar and the sun blazes down, driving conditions can become challenging and potentially hazardous. 

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) offers crucial advice to ensure safe and comfortable journeys during hot, sunny weather. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on their recommendations.

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Dealing with intense sunlight

  • Utilise the sun visor: Position the sun visor conveniently to shield your eyes from the direct glare of the sun. Proper use of the sun visor ensures you have a clear view of the road ahead without being blinded by sunlight.
  • Wear sunglasses: Opt for sunglasses, preferably polarised with bluish-colored lenses. These types of lenses can reduce glare and enhance contrast. However, be extra cautious when driving through tunnels or shaded areas, as the sudden changes in light conditions can make vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles less visible.
  • Monitor sunshades: Be mindful of the sunshades attached to the side or rear windows. While they help in reducing glare and heat, they can also limit your visibility. Ensure that they do not obstruct your view of the road and surrounding areas.
  • Stay alert in intense sunlight: Intense sunlight can make it difficult to see the headlights of other vehicles, particularly motorcycles, and obscure road signs. Pay extra attention to your surroundings to avoid potential hazards.

Managing heat while driving

  • Use air conditioning: Keep the vehicle’s air conditioning on to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the car. If your vehicle lacks air conditioning, ventilate the interior by lowering the windows. Ensure that passengers do not put their arms or heads out of the windows while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Stay hydrated: Carry cool, non-alcoholic drinks with you. Make more frequent stops to hydrate, air out the vehicle, and relax. Proper hydration is crucial to maintaining focus and reducing fatigue.
  • Choose shaded parking: When taking breaks, try to park in shaded areas. If parking in the sun is unavoidable, never leave elderly people, children, or animals inside the vehicle, as the interior can heat up rapidly to dangerous levels.
  • Monitor engine temperature: Keep an eye on your vehicle’s engine temperature. Overheating can lead to engine failure and leave you stranded in the heat. Regularly check coolant levels and ensure the cooling system is in good working condition.
  • Maintain tyre pressure: Ensure your tyres are properly inflated. The heat can increase tyre pressure, and under-inflated tyres are more prone to blowouts. Proper tyre maintenance is essential for road safety and prolongs the lifespan of your tyres.

By following these guidelines from the DGT, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with driving in hot, sunny conditions. Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy your summer travels responsibly.

Also read: 7.5 million road trips expected over the holiday weekend

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