Every driver has experienced it; you turn your vehicle into the sun and cannot see due to extreme glare. Another frequent problem is nighttime glare when oncoming headlights prevent you from clearly seeing the road ahead. Windshield glare isn’t only an annoyance; it can also be dangerous. If a driver is unable to see ahead of them, they run the risk of causing an accident and harming themselves, their passengers, and other drivers on the road.
Here we’ll review some of the techniques you can use to reduce windshield glare while driving:
Use Your Visor
First and foremost, using the front visor on sunny days can greatly reduce windshield glare. When driving towards the sun, flip the visor down and place it close to the windshield. The visor will block the sun’s brightness while still allowing you to see down the road. You can also purchase aftermarket visor attachments that can be used to further reduce glare.
Clean Your Windshield Regularly
Another way to reduce windshield glare is to maintain a clean windshield both inside and out. Dirt and dust accumulation on the exterior of the glass can significantly increase the chances of glare while driving during the day and night. Additionally, the interior of the windshield should also be cleaned regularly to remove particulate matter and residue that naturally builds up on the glass.
Avoid Shiny Dash Protectants
If you’re like a lot of car owners, you enjoy cleaning your car. This includes the interior and especially the dashboard. While having a shiny clean dashboard may look good while parked, it can contribute to windshield glare and prevent you from clearly seeing the road. When the sun hits the shiny dashboard, it will reflect to the windshield, causing considerable glare. If you plan on cleaning your dashboard, opt for a low-shine protectant that will keep your dash looking clean but not cause glare while driving.
Wear Sunglasses
It may seem like a simple solution, but wearing a pair of sunglasses while driving on a sunny day can significantly reduce windshield glare. Any type of sunglasses will work, yet using a polarized pair will filter the sun’s rays and eliminate any noticeable glare while on the road.
Maintain Your Windshield Wipers
Sometimes glare isn’t caused by the sun or from oncoming traffic, but rather from the combination of rain and poorly maintained windshield wipers. Always make sure your car’s wipers are in good condition and operating correctly to avoid instances of smearing during bad weather, which contributes to visible glare.
Know When It’s Time to Replace a Windshield
Even though there may be no apparent damage to an older windshield like cracks or chips, the glass will still degrade over time, leading to an increase in glare while driving. Scratches and pitting in older glass tend to displace light that is reflected through the windshield, causing glare and distortions. If you notice small scratches or pitting in the glass, it may be time to consider professional windshield replacement.
Delaware Auto Glass is a leading provider of windshield repairs and replacements. We offer mobile window service throughout Delaware and in portions of Maryland and Pennsylvania. If you’re looking to replace your windshield or have a sunroof repaired, contact us today!