Driving in Bright Sunshine and Hot Weather
Be Prepared for the Weather
Before starting a long journey, always check that you and your vehicle are ready for the conditions ahead.
Tyres
-
Check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold — ideally before you start driving.
-
Do not check pressures after driving for a while, as warm tyres give inaccurate readings.
-
Make sure tyres have sufficient tread depth and are in good condition before setting off.
Coolant
Before beginning your journey, check the engine coolant level and top up if necessary. This helps prevent your vehicle from overheating, especially in warm weather or heavy traffic.
Keep Your Windscreen Clear
Hot weather means more insects and dust on the road, so it’s important to keep your windscreen clean to maintain good visibility.
-
Keep the glass free from dirt, water, and grease marks to reduce glare.
-
Check the washer reservoir and top up with screenwash if needed — using an additive helps prevent smears and streaks.
-
Regularly clean wiper blades to maintain effectiveness.
Dealing with Glare
Sun Glare
Glare from bright sunlight can seriously reduce visibility and make it difficult to spot hazards.
-
Slow down and take extra care — glare can be worse on wet roads due to reflections.
-
Be ready to stop for pedestrians or cyclists who may be harder to see.
-
Continuous glare can be tiring; rest regularly on long journeys.
-
Wear sunglasses approved for driving — they help reduce glare and maintain your focus, especially when driving abroad where sunlight may be stronger.
Low-Angle Sun
During winter, the sun often sits low in the sky, making glare worse.
-
Use your sun visor and sunglasses to minimise glare.
-
Avoid looking directly into the sun.
-
Keep the windscreen clean inside and out to reduce dazzle.
Coping with Heat
Ventilation and Comfort
-
Ensure your vehicle is well ventilated. Use air conditioning or open windows slightly.
-
Take regular breaks on long trips — heat and bright light can cause fatigue.
Stay Hydrated
-
Drink plenty of water — at least 1.2 litres (6–8 glasses) daily, and more in hot weather.
-
Carry extra bottles of water in your vehicle.
-
Take time to eat, drink, and rest during long journeys.
-
If you feel sleepy, stop at a safe place such as a service area — never stop on a motorway hard shoulder except in an emergency.
Traffic and Breakdowns
-
Listen to travel updates and avoid known congestion points.
-
Overheated engines are a common cause of breakdowns in hot conditions, particularly in long queues.
Travelling with Pets
-
Keep the vehicle well ventilated and carry water for your pets.
-
Stop regularly so they can drink and cool down.
-
Never leave animals unattended in a parked car — even with windows open, temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
Road Surfaces in Hot Weather
Soft Tarmac
In prolonged heat, road surfaces can soften.
-
Brake and corner gently to maintain control.
Oil and Grease
Oil, rubber, and water can build up on hot roads, making them slippery — especially after rain.
-
Reduce speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Loose Chippings
Highway authorities often resurface roads during summer.
-
Follow temporary speed limits and keep well back from other vehicles.
-
Loose stones can damage your car and pose a danger to pedestrians and cyclists.