Paris' oversized Pucci/Gucci sunnies are perhaps the most popular trend now. Nevertheless, have you ever considered how safe these accessories/ eye protectors are for driving?
British female car insurer Sheilas' Wheels can testify the truth about this. The team has recently researched together with eye health charity: The Eyecare Trust, to review and critique the safety factors on this season's most fashionable high-street sunglasses.
The big, bold and beautiful sunglasses, which are typically designed with brown lenses, can stop level with the edge of the eye with chunky, wide arms. Their chunky frames could pose a hazard when driving since the width of the plastic arms could possibly restrict the driver's peripheral vision. These shades are not advisable for motorists who need good all-round vision and a visual range of at least 120 degrees.
The Summery pink lenses of girly shades are commonly designed with wrap back slightly over the eyes, with slim-fitting arms. These slim-fitting, wide, open arms are good for 180-degree vision. But once you wear such kind of feminine sunnies, you should beware of pink-tinted lenses that can distort colour vision. This can be tricky for understanding road signs and potential hazards.
The Small, dark & handsome sunglasses should be considered too. These usually have small-rimmed pair, with slim arms and cool, dark category- 4 filter lenses. They are great in bright sunlight but definitely not suitable for driving. There are laws saying that drivers' eyewear must allow more than 8 per cent of the visible light to be transmitted through the lens. The dark lens of sunglasses may not be able to transmit sufficient light, so beware girls.
Do you have an aviator? This is basically polarized, having lenses that curve back around the eye with slim-fitting arms. These are good sunglasses for you since they can reduce harsh glare from strong sunlight while minimizing reflections from wet or polished road surfaces. Large aviator style lenses and slim arms offer unrestricted viewing which are perfect for fashion-conscious drivers and Top Gun fans too. However, polarised lenses can highlight stress lines in old windscreens, and these can distract you.
If you are a simple type, then simple, brown/grey-tinted lenses with anti-reflective coating and slim-fitting arms would be great. These neutral-tinted lenses provide more natural colour definition. The anti-reflective coating helps to minimize glare in bright conditions while the slim-fitting arms will ensure the drivers' peripheral vision is not compromised at all.
If you are conscious about your safety and the kind of sunglasses you wear haunts you, try going to your local optometrist for practical advice on choosing appropriate eyewear for driving. The frame density, reflective coatings, filter category, and of course, lens colour will play a part in determining whether your sunglasses are roadworthy or not.
Girl college drivers like me should be aware of simple safety tips like this. If you are one of us, be sensible by having a practical pair of sunglasses for driving at hand in your glove box. Always make sure that these are free from scratches and smears. Wearing unsuitable sunglasses will be as dangerous as wearing none at all as you drive in bright conditions.
