The Sacramento Police Department would like to remind the public of the potentially hazardous conditions caused by drivers looking directly into the sunlight during the morning and evening commutes.  

Many of the streets in Sacramento are laid out along an east-west and north-south grid.  During this time of year, the sun rises directly out of the east which coincides with morning and/or evening commutes for many motorists.  Glare is most significant to drivers while the sun is low, just above the horizon, in the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. 

Motorists should always be prepared to slow down to a speed which is safe for the prevailing driving conditions.  Two years ago, the City of Sacramento had multiple fatal and serious injury collisions where sun-glare was reported as a factor. 

Here are 10 tips to reduce sun-glare collisions:    

• 1) Keep your windshield clean on the inside and outside.
• 2) Ensure your windshield wipers are in good working order.
• 3) Keep your washer fluid reservoir full in case you need to clean your windshield while driving.
• 4) Wear polarized sunglasses.
• 5) Keep your visor in good working order and clear of items that may restrict its use.
• 6) Avoid using high gloss dashboard cleaners that leave a highly reflective shine.
• 7) Maintain a space cushion between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you which allows for ample time to react.
• 8) Anticipate that sometimes pedestrians don't realize you can't see them.
• 9) Adjust your driving around those areas you know have sun-glare problems.
• 10) Avoid using cleaners that may leave streaks that refract sunlight making it hard to see.

Pedestrians should be cautious when crossing east-west roadways during this time period and recognize when a motorists has the sun in their eyes.