Drivers are being warned not to let Wednesday evening’s solar eclipse become a dangerous distraction, with GEM Motoring Assist urging motorists to find somewhere safe to stop if they want to watch the spectacle.
The partial solar eclipse on Wednesday, 12 August will be visible across the UK during the early evening, potentially coinciding with the journey home for thousands of motorists.
And while plenty of people will understandably be tempted to look skywards, the advice for anyone behind the wheel could hardly be simpler: don’t.
The eclipse is expected to be particularly impressive across south-western Britain, although it should be visible from locations throughout the UK. That could also mean additional traffic around open spaces and recognised viewing locations as people search for an uninterrupted view towards the western sky.
For drivers, however, the eclipse brings more than the obvious risk of distraction.
Low sun could make driving more difficult
With the event taking place during the evening, motorists may also encounter changing light levels, glare from the low sun and reduced contrast – all of which can make it harder to see other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.
There is also the possibility of unexpected congestion around popular viewing locations, together with drivers slowing suddenly or attempting to stop somewhere unsuitable.
GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said the eclipse would be a memorable event for millions, but warned that safety had to come first.
“If you want to enjoy the spectacle, plan ahead, park somewhere safe and watch only when your vehicle is stationary in a safe and legal place,” he said.
GEM is particularly warning motorists not to wear eclipse-viewing glasses while driving, and not to attempt to photograph or film the event using a mobile phone or camera from behind the wheel.
Luckhurst added that drivers should also be alert to the behaviour of other road users.
Pedestrians and cyclists may themselves be distracted by the eclipse, particularly around parks, open countryside and recognised viewing areas, so motorists are being encouraged to give vulnerable road users additional time and space.
Don’t stop just anywhere for a better view
Finding a good vantage point is no excuse for unsafe parking.
GEM advises anyone planning to watch the eclipse to choose their viewing location before setting off and leave enough time to park safely and legally.
Drivers should avoid sudden stops and must not simply pull onto verges, hard shoulders or narrow rural roads in an attempt to get a better view.
It could be particularly important in areas attracting larger numbers of eclipse watchers, where unsuitable parking could create additional hazards or obstruct other traffic.
Motoring Echo Top Tips
Planning to watch Wednesday’s eclipse?
- Don’t look at the eclipse while driving. Keep your attention on the road.
- Choose your viewing point beforehand. Avoid searching for somewhere to stop at the last minute.
- Park safely and legally. A good view isn’t worth creating a road hazard.
- Expect low-sun glare. Make sure your windscreen is clean and allow extra space between vehicles.
- Watch for distracted pedestrians and cyclists. They may be looking upwards rather than towards approaching traffic.
- Never use eclipse glasses while driving. They are designed for viewing the sun, not for operating a vehicle.
- Don’t use a phone or camera at the wheel. Stop somewhere safe before taking photographs.
- Use proper eye protection once parked. Ordinary sunglasses are not suitable for looking directly at the sun.
Motoring Echo Verdict
A solar eclipse is sufficiently unusual that plenty of us will want to see it – and Wednesday evening’s event should provide an impressive sight across much of Britain.
But there is a time and a place to look upwards, and the driver’s seat of a moving car is neither.
The sensible approach is to plan ahead, find a safe and legal place to park and then enjoy the eclipse using appropriate eye protection. Drivers who are staying on the road should concentrate on the additional hazards around them, from glare and changing light conditions to distracted pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists.
The eclipse may last only a short time. The consequences of taking your eyes off the road can last considerably longer.
- You can visit GEM Motoring Assist here: http://www.motoringassist.com/
