Summer driving risks: what every motorist needs to know

How to stay safe on the road this Summer

As temperatures rise and daylight hours stretch longer, summer might seem like the easiest time of year to be on the road. However, beneath the clear skies and dry conditions lie a number of often-overlooked hazards that can impact both driver safety and vehicle condition. From pollen settling on your car to the blinding effects of sun glare, these seasonal risks can quickly turn a routine journey into a dangerous one if not properly managed.

Pollen season

Seasonal pollen is not only messy, but it can also compromise both vehicle condition and driving safety plus, if not removed properly, can result in drivers breaching the Highway Code.

Paintwork damage 🚗

Pollen contains acidic properties, meaning that once it mixes with moisture (such as rain or dew), it can start to etch into paint and clear coat over time. This is why regular cleaning is essential to avoid damage. It is sensible to wash your car at least once a week during peak pollen season to prevent buildup and mitigate the risk of paint damage.

During the summer months, it's also worth considering incorporating a wax coat into your car wash routine. This will act as a protective layer, and its smooth coating causes pollen to slide straight off instead of settling and needing soaping or sponging down to remove.

Visibility risks 👀

Pollen buildup on windscreens and windows can create a smeary film that reduces visibility, especially when mixed with moisture or wiped incorrectly. Even a moderate layer of pollen can become hazardous if not cleaned promptly.

To help avoid this, motorists should rinse their car regularly to remove fresh dust and use drying sheets or old t-shirts to lift more stubborn pollen. Don't use harsh or abrasive materials like towels or paper towels as this is likely to just smudge the pollen dust or even scratch the vehicle.

Legal requirements and fines

The Highway Code clearly states that drivers need to keep a vehicle in a roadworthy condition, and windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision. Drivers who fail to maintain a clear view of the road because of pollen build-up can therefore face a fine of up to £1,000.

This fine applies when the windscreen is obscured (by dirt, debris, or pollen) or if windows are smeared, fogged, or otherwise restrict vision. Police can issue on-the-spot penalties if they judge the vehicle to be unsafe for driving due to poor visibility.

Glare from the sun

Sun glare, during low winter sun or bright summer mornings, can drastically reduce visibility, distort your perception of hazards, and increase reaction times.

Sunglasses 🕶️

Wearing UV-protected, polarised sunglasses is one of the most effective ways to reduce glare. Polarised lenses minimise reflected light from roads, water, and windscreens. Drivers should make sure to choose ones that carry the CE mark to meet safety standards, and don't assume you won't need them during winter as this is when the sun visor is least effective (during low winter sun).

Slow down and reduce following distance 

Sun glare reduces your ability to read the road ahead. Drivers should therefore take extra care when necessary, by reducing speed, doubling following distance and allowing more time to react to sudden stops and other potential hazards. Maintaining a constant speed and avoiding sudden braking also protects drivers behind who may also be dazzled. If glare is behind you, oncoming drivers may struggle to see you, so use dipped headlights to improve your visibility to others.

If glare is severe, it's important to pull over safely and wait for conditions to improve.

Windscreen maintenance

A dirty windscreen dramatically intensifies glare because dust and smears scatter sunlight. Regularly clean inside and outside glass, ideally every week. Keep washer fluid topped up and inspect wipers regularly, for wear and tear.

Dirty windscreens worsen glare and must be cleaned before driving, especially in winter as frost or smears can further obstruct visibility.

While summer driving might seem less hazardous than winter conditions, risks like pollen accumulation and sun glare can significantly affect visibility and vehicle safety. By maintaining your vehicle regularly, staying alert to changing conditions, and following best practices, you can ensure safer journeys throughout the season - while also avoiding unnecessary fines.