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Are deadly crashes more common in bright sunlight?

From the use of illicit drugs while driving to surpassing the speed limit and drunk driving at night, there are a number of situations in which a motor vehicle crash may be more likely. However, drivers do not always keep in mind that far more risks can play a role in an accident, even some which might seem insignificant. For example, research has shown that bright sunlight may result in motor vehicle wrecks being more likely.

Information that was shared by the National Center for Biotechnology Information shows that more people are injured in motor vehicle accidents when the sun is shining brightly, as opposed to regular sunlight. A study which assessed people who were sent to the hospital for auto accident injuries between 1995 and 2014 found that a life-threatening collision was 16 percent more likely during periods of bright sunshine. There are many dangers that motorists should be aware of, but the sun’s glare is clearly another factor that should not be overlooked.

It is crucial for drivers to be aware of the risks associated with glare from the sun, even if they do not think that bright sunlight affects their ability to see the road. For example, another driver may be more sensitive to the bright light and cause an accident while trying to switch lanes. Or, glare might be affecting a driver who is headed in the opposite direction, causing them to swerve in front of oncoming traffic. Regrettably, the sun and other risks will continue to contribute to collisions in the years to come.