About riding
Sunstrike
Sunstrike can occur at any time, but is most likely during sunrise or sunset, when the sun's rays hit your windscreen at a low angle. This can make it difficult, or even impossible, to see. This is a very dangerous condition to ride in.
To avoid a crash, follow the guidelines in this section.
Reducing the danger of sunstrike
- Be prepared for possible sunstrike when riding at sunrise or sunset, especially when turning or riding towards the sun.
- Be especially careful in winter, when sunstrike is more likely to occur because the sun is lower in the sky.
- Keep your visor clean, as dust and grime on the windscreen can make the effects of sunstrike much worse.
- Wear sunglasses when riding with the sun in your eyes.
- If you experience sunstrike, it may be best to pull over and wait for a few minutes until your eyes adjust or visibility improves.
- Be careful if snow has fallen and the sky is clear - sunlight shining on snow can cause 'snow blindness', which produces similar effects to sunstrike.
Last updated: 5 October 2009