Sunday 29 June 2008

The right sunglasses help summer drivers stay safe

THE UK’s roadster and coupe cabriolet drivers are being given some timely advice about looking cool behind the wheel this summer – without compromising their safety.

The trick is to avoid making a spectacle of yourself by wearing naff shades while at the same time protecting your eyes from excessive glare.

The Eyecare Trust says that sunglasses are not merely a fashion statement, even though designer models can cost hundreds.

The Trust advises drivers to choose glasses bearing the CE or BS EN 1836:2005 marks for a safe level of protection.

Don’t choose really dark glasses which could impair vision when driving. But do choose lenses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare.

Sunglasses with slim arms provide the greatest all-round vision, bearing in mind drivers to see at least 120 degrees.

Beware of pink or blue tinted lenses which can distort colours, such as traffic lights.

Sunglasses with graduated-tint lenses are best for drivers. They give protection from bright overhead light and leave a lighter area that is best for reading maps or dashboard instruments.

Dame Mary Perkins, founder of the Specsavers chain, says: "Sunglasses make driving in bright light easier by reducing glare from the road, especially for drivers of open-top cars.

"They also enhance contrast, provide protection from the sun and significantly reduce eye fatigue.”

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