Sun Glare Car Accident

Sun glare can make it difficult for even the most experienced driver to drive safely. When the sunlight is refracted or reflected in such a way that it obstructs a driver’s view through the windshield, sun glare occurs. Sun glare can make it difficult or impossible for a driver to see anything on the road and operate a vehicle safely. Sun glares most frequently happen during sunset and sunrise, coinciding with morning and evening commutes, increasing the chances of motor vehicle accidents. Sun glare can make driving extremely dangerous and lead to serious injuries.

If you have experienced injuries in a car accident caused by sun glare, you may be entitled to compensation. While sun glare is responsible for many crashes in North Carolina each year, it is not a valid defense against personal liability. When a driver becomes blinded by sun glare and causes an accident, the driver may still be liable for damages to the accident victims and their property.

If you have suffered injuries resulting from a sun glare car accident, we can help. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC our attorneys use our extensive personal injury law experience to advocate on behalf of our clients effectively. Contact our law firm today to schedule your initial consultation.

Common Causes of Sun Glare Car Accidents

When a driver's field of vision is compromised, the driver is in a precarious position. Many sun glare accidents happen at an intersection when a driver cannot see traffic signals or other motorists on the road. The following scenarios are examples of typical situations involving sun glare:

• The sun impairs the driver’s ability to see the taillights of the cars in front of him or her. When the vehicle in front comes to a stop or slows down, the driver may not be able to stop in time to avoid a rear-end collision.
• A driver makes a left-hand turn into oncoming traffic because a sun-glare prevents him or her from seeing the oncoming vehicles and causes an accident. The second vehicle may slam into a vehicle in oncoming traffic that he or she did not see due to the sun glare.
• A driver crossing through an intersection may strike pedestrians or bicyclists if a sun glare prevents them from seeing them. Drivers may also hit another car in an intersection due to a sun glare obstructing their field of vision.

Tips For Avoiding Car Accidents Caused by Sun Glare

Drivers who are generally safe can be at risk for causing collisions when sun glare obstructs their field of vision. The following preventative actions could help drivers prevent crashes caused by sun glares:

• Avoid driving with a dirty windshield. A dirty windshield can amplify the effects of sun glare. The dirt itself can also obstruct the driver's vision. Drivers who clean their windows frequently and check their windshield fluid will likely decrease their risk of causing a collision.
• Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from UV rays and also help you combat the effects of sun glare. Wearing sunglasses cannot wholly prevent the effects of sun glare, however.
• Do not look directly into the sun or any reflective object. Doing so could create temporary darkened spots in the vision that can make it difficult to see.
• Snow can be extremely reflective and exacerbate the effect of the sun glare. Take extra precautions when snow is on the ground.
• Consider sun glare to be as dangerous as other hazardous road conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or drifting snow. If sun glare is making it difficult to see ahead, slow your speed down to give yourself more time to react should another motor vehicle or pedestrian move into your pathway.

Recovering Compensation for Personal Injuries

If a driver could not see you due to sun glare and crash into your vehicle, you may be able to bring a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Drivers who are injured in car accidents may have a right to recover compensation for their injuries. If you have suffered an injury, do not be afraid to exercise your right to compensation under North Carolina personal injury law.

It is essential to seek the advice of a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC our attorneys conduct thorough investigations into the accidents that caused our client's injuries. If you are interested in seeking compensation via an insurance settlement or through a personal injury lawsuit, we can help. Call us now at 704.370.2828 to speak with our lawyers to explore your legal options or fill out our contact form. Now taking cases throughout North Carolina with offices in Uptown Charlotte, Mooresville and our new location in Monroe.

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