Is Wearing Sunglasses While Driving Considered a Traffic Violation?
4 Answers
It is not illegal, but wearing sunglasses reduces the amount of light reaching the eyes, making it harder to see objects clearly and potentially affecting the driver's ability to assess road conditions. Below is relevant information about wearing sunglasses while driving: 1. Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses allow directional light to pass through, which can be likened to the effect of blinds. When the blinds are adjusted to a horizontal position, one can see the scenery outside while avoiding the glare of sunlight. Therefore, polarized lenses can filter out dazzling glare caused by scattering, refraction, reflection, and other factors. 2. Gradient Sunglasses: Also commonly known as "gradient" sunglasses, these are more user-friendly than solid-colored sunglasses. Since the purpose of wearing sunglasses is to block harsh sunlight, which comes from above, the darker upper part and lighter lower part help shield the eyes from sunlight while allowing clear visibility of objects below. However, these sunglasses still have limitations for driving purposes.
Wearing sunglasses while driving is generally not considered a traffic violation in my opinion. I've been driving long distances for many years, and wearing sunglasses on bright, sunny days actually helps me see the road more clearly and reduces fatigue caused by glare. However, if you enter a tunnel or encounter dim lighting on cloudy days and still wear dark sunglasses, it may impair your vision. In such cases, if traffic police notice unstable driving, they might warn you for dangerous operation. The key lies in choosing the right type of sunglasses—for example, polarized lenses effectively reduce glare, and those with high light transmittance are safer. Avoid overly dark sunglasses just for fashion's sake. It's best to have spare lenses ready when weather conditions vary significantly.
From a safety perspective while driving, wearing sunglasses is not illegal. They protect the eyes from strong light and prevent distractions, especially when sunlight directly hits the windshield. Light transmittance control is crucial—standard sunglasses should have at least 18% light transmittance to avoid excessive shading. However, in low-light conditions such as dusk or rainy days, wearing sunglasses can reduce visibility clarity and increase collision risks. Different road sections require flexible adjustments—it's fine to wear them for extended periods on highways, but in crowded urban areas with frequent light changes, they should be removed.
Wearing sunglasses while driving is not considered a traffic violation under normal circumstances. As a young person driving a small car, I often do this because it feels stylish and provides sun protection. On sunny days, wearing sunglasses with light-colored lenses can help reduce glare, making driving more comfortable. However, remember not to use them at night, as they can make the already dark environment appear even blurrier, increasing safety risks. The choice of sunglasses material is also important; lightweight and light-transmitting designs are more reliable.
