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Motorists could face unlimited fines just for wearing sunglasses whilst driving.
Although the law permits drivers to wear sunglasses, there are specific restrictions on the types that are allowed. Wearing sunglasses on a sunny day can help diminish glare from outside, lessening the likelihood of the driver being blinded.
Sunglasses can also safeguard eye health from the sun’s harmful rays. However, not all sunglasses are created equal and some block out more light than others.
Sunglasses are categorised into four groups based on how much light they allow through. The lowest category allows between 80 and 100 per cent of light through, thus not significantly impairing vision.
Conversely, the highest category of sunglasses only permits between three and eight per cent of light through, and is only recommended for exceptionally bright sunlight. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of each category of sunglasses:
| Category | How much light is passed through the lens |
| 0 | 80 to 100 per cent |
| 1 | 43 to 83 per cent |
| 2 | 18 to 43 per cent |
| 3 | eight to 18 per cent |
| 4 | three to eight per cent |
As category 4 sunglasses allow the least amount of light to pass through, they are not legally permitted for driving. This is because they obscure vision too much which can make it challenging to see the road properly and thus react appropriately to the various situations one might encounter, increasing the risk of an accident occurring.
According to the AA, it’s crucial that any sunglasses you wear aren’t so dark that your vision is impaired, or that it’s difficult to see traffic signs and signals. It’s also vital to ensure your sunglasses are free from scratches or other damage that could hinder your sight.
If you’re uncertain about the category of your sunglasses, you can typically find essential information on the frame. For instance, you might find the model name and a series of numbers on the frame.
The critical detail to note is the number at the end, which will usually range from 0 to 4, along with a letter, indicating the category and type of frame. For example, ‘3P’ signifies that the lenses are polarised and fall into category 3, making them suitable for driving on a sunny day.
If you’re involved in an accident while wearing sunglasses deemed too dark for the road conditions, it could be considered dangerous driving. This offence carries an unlimited fine and, in some instances, could result in up to 14 years imprisonment, a driving ban, and up to nine points on your licence.
