Sun Glare Contributes to RI Bicycle AccidentsChanges in the weather affect the safety of drivers and car passengers. These can adversely affect the condition of the road, visibility, and the ability of drivers to respond to road signs, warnings, and hazards. In some cases, these seemingly small changes may cause a chain of accidents.
RI Bicycle Accidents - The sun is a Major Contributing FactorOne of the conditions that affect visibility is sun glare. The sun's glare reduces the driver's immediate view. It may hide a hazard or a warning along the road. It impairs vision because the driver is unable to see as far ahead as he or she does under normal conditions. Some objects become fainter and less distinct, which also reduces the driver's perception of actual distance, and even speed, in the case of moving vehicles that have the sun behind them. All these factors increase the chances of accidents on the road. A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that the sun's glare is a contributing factor in crashes.
Death More Likely in Bicycle AccidentsCyclists are more often the victims of fatal accidents than anyone else on the road - especially when sun glare is involved. In Rhode Island, a 42-year-old cyclist died in a crash. The driver of the car claimed that his vision was obstructed by the sun's glare. In some cases, this is an acceptable justification. When there is too much glare, cyclists are usually hidden by the light, and before drivers can swerve out of the way, the collision has already occurred. In some instances, collisions may be prevented by proper safety measures. Cyclists can help reduce accident rates caused by the sun by wearing bright coloured clothing, reflectors, and helmets. They may also choose more shaded routes where sun glare can be avoided. On the other hand, motor vehicle drivers are expected to anticipate a hazard or a threat when their visibility is diminished. They may do their part by slowing down to anticipate the unseen, or by wearing sunglasses to reduce the brightness of the sun.Some accidents cannot be prevented, but it is better to be cautious and use all preventive measures to avoid a crash than to take a fatal risk and pay for the consequences later on.So please remember - One of the conditions that affect visibility is sun glare, spread the word.