EXPERTS HAVE ISSUED A WARNING TO UK MOTORISTS TO ENSURE THEIR SUNGLASSES ARE LEGAL. 12:42, 03 Jun 2025 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

sunlight. Article continues below 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. JOIN THE DAILY RECORD WHATSAPP COMMUNITY! Get the latest news sent

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'exit group'. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. 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. Article continues below "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.