How to Adjust Your Driving for Summer Heat and Glare

Introduction:

Summer driving often conjures images of sunny skies and open-road excursions—but it also brings unique challenges: blinding glare and sweltering heat that can compromise safety. In fact, the inside of a parked car can reach over 100 °F (38 °C) in less than half an hour, even with windows cracked. That’s not just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. During the height of summer travel, accident rates tend to rise, partly due to drivers taken off guard by bright sun and heat-strained vehicles. Learning to counteract heat and glare isn’t just smart—it’s essential for safe summer driving.

Understanding the Hazards

1. Blinding Sun Glare

Sun glare is a major visibility hazard—whether from low-angle sunrise or slick asphalt reflecting intense sunlight. Studies reveal that glare can “temporarily dazzle or blind” drivers, forcing sudden stops or delayed reactions. In summer, this risk is amplified, especially when driving east in the morning or west in the evening.

2. Heat and Its Effects on Vehicles

Hot pavement softens asphalt, reducing tire traction and increasing the risk of blowouts—one-third of summer breakdowns are tire-related. Engines can also overheat, turning a relaxing drive into an emergency scenario.

3. False Safety in Nice Weather

Ironically, pleasant summer weather can create complacency. While 67% of drivers feel safer in summer, data says otherwise—auto accidents spike during warm months. Bright skies may lull us into lower vigilance: one study noted 81% of drivers are “less likely to drive cautiously” in summer.

Gear Up: Essential Tools & Tips

Sunglasses with UV and Polarized Lenses

Choosing quality sunglasses—specifically Category 3 lenses—can block 99–100% of UVA/UVB rays and sharply reduce glare from reflective surfaces. Polarized lenses are proven to minimize glare, improving driver recognition of hazards.

Clean Windshield, Wipers & Visors

Even a small amount of dirt dramatically speckles glare. Regularly clean both sides of your windshield and replace wipers to eliminate streaks. Use your car’s sun visors and steer clear of smudged visors that scatter light.

Use Front & Rear Sun Shades

Park with a reflective windshield sunshade to maintain cooler temps. Applying these is one of the easiest ways to mitigate heat buildup.

Smart Driving Techniques

Time Your Travels

Avoid sunrise drives heading east or sunset drives heading west. Delay travel briefly or plan alternate routes with less exposure during high-glare periods.

Fan Out Hot Air First

When entering a parked car that’s been sitting in the sun, open all doors or windows briefly—swinging one of the doors a few times can help push the hot air out—before turning on the air conditioning.

Optimize A/C Settings

Initially fresh air, then recirculation: when A/C kicks in, switch to recirculated air to cool faster and reduce humidity inside the cabin.

Maintain Safe Following Distance

Heat-softened pavement increases stopping distance. Grip on hot asphalt is less stable—give yourself extra room and slow down.

Stay Hydrated

Higher temperatures cause dehydration, impairing focus and reaction time. Keep water in the car and take safe sips when stopped or driving calmly—staying hydrated helps maintain focus and reaction time.

Vehicle Preparation

A/C and Cooling System Checks

Have your A/C serviced before summer starts—low refrigerant or clogged filters compromise performance. Check coolant levels and inspect hoses and belts.

Tires and Pressure

Check for cracks, proper tread depth and pressure according to manufacturer’s specs—underinflated or overinflated tires in heat are ticking time bombs.

Battery and Fluid Maintenance

Extreme heat shortens battery life; test it annually after three years. Confirm all fluid levels—transmission, power steering, brakes, wiper—are topped up.

Wiper Blades and Filters

Replace blades to avoid streaking, and swap out cabin and engine air filters for a more comfortable and efficient drive.

During the Drive

Keep Ventilation Balanced

Direct A/C vents at your feet initially to push hot air upward and out; once cooled, redistribute air through dashboard vents.

Combat Glare On-the-Fly

When approaching glare zones, lower sun visors incrementally and pore over lookout angles. Flip rear-view mirror to anti-glare if flashed from behind.

Slow Down in Traffic

Summer traffic tends to jam with breakdowns or accidents. Keep a broader buffer zone, scan farther ahead and adjust speed to prevent sudden stops.

Illuminate Yourself

Daytime running headlights increase visibility and make your car more detectable amid glare-prone conditions.

Emergency Planning

Keep a Heat-Ready Kit

Pack essentials: water, snacks, jumper cables, portable fan, first-aid, emergency blanket, sun block, hat and charged cellphone.

Know Overheating Signs

Watch for warning lights, steam, or engine smell. If your engine overheats, pull over, turn off A/C, run heater on full to offload engine heat, and check coolant only when cool.

Never Leave Pets or Kids Unattended

Temperatures inside can soar to 109–140 °F (43–60 °C) within 10–20 minutes. Always lock doors and check back seats before exiting.

Expert Insights & Recent Trends

According to Texas Mutual, keeping your windshield clean, wearing 99–100% UV protective sunglasses, and using sunshades in your car are “key steps” to manage glare and heat.
Drake Law Group warns that windshield glare severely cuts visibility, urging drivers to use polarized sunglasses and sun visors.
AAA Northeast data shows that interior temps can reach 140 °F (60 °C), underscoring prevention as crucial.
A Michelin survey revealed a false sense of safety: 67% of drivers feel more secure in summer, yet tend to lower their guard at the same time.

Conclusion—Drive Smart, Stay Safe

Adjusting your driving for summer heat and glare is more than a comfort measure—it’s vital for your safety and performance on the road. Here’s a quick refresher:

Gear up with certified polarized sunglasses and sun shades.
Clean your windows and maintain wipers and filters.
Prepare your vehicle: A/C, tires, fluids, batteries.
Use smart driving techniques: ventilate before A/C, adjust speed, maintain visibility.
Carry an emergency kit and never leave living beings in a hot vehicle.

A bit of awareness and preparation can make the difference between a scorched cruise and a smooth, stress-free summer drive. The road ahead is bright—let’s keep it that way.