Polarised sunglasses offer several benefits that make commuting more comfortable and safe, especially during stressful times like rush hour – so make sure you understand the following before you head off without buying a pair or proper sunglasses. Having to spend a long time in New Zealand traffic is already annoying enough… so choose wisely.
Reducing Eye Strain from Fatigue
Morning and afternoon commutes can be tough when you’re already tired. Polarised lenses reduce the glare that can cause additional eye strain, helping your eyes relax during those drowsy hours. This is especially useful when the sun is low in the sky during morning and evening rush hours, as direct sunlight can worsen your tiredness and make focusing harder.
Example: Imagine you’ve had a long day at work, and as you drive home, the low-angle sunlight starts beaming directly into your eyes. Without polarised sunglasses, the glare can feel overwhelming, forcing you to squint and making it difficult to focus on the road. With polarised lenses, that intense sunlight is filtered out, allowing you to keep your eyes relaxed, reducing your fatigue even when you’re feeling exhausted.
Improving Visibility in Rush Hour Traffic
During rush hour, heavy traffic demands constant attention. Polarised sunglasses cut through the visual clutter by enhancing contrast, making it easier to see the road, other cars, and pedestrians clearly. This reduces distractions caused by bright light reflecting off car windows or metal surfaces, helping you stay focused and alert when every second counts.
Example: In dense traffic, the sunlight often reflects off the chrome and windshields of nearby cars, creating a blinding effect that makes it hard to see lane markers or quickly react to sudden stops. Polarised sunglasses eliminate these harsh reflections, allowing you to see the road and other vehicles more clearly. This can be particularly helpful when you’re changing lanes or merging into traffic, where every second of visibility is crucial.
Blocking Harsh Sunlight and Reflections
Sunlight reflecting off wet roads, car hoods, and buildings can make it difficult to see clearly, especially when you’re navigating tricky intersections or congested highways. Polarised sunglasses filter out these intense reflections, giving you a clearer view of the road ahead. This reduces the risk of accidents and makes your commute far less frustrating, even when the sun is at its brightest.
Example: Think about a situation where you’re driving on a freshly rained-on highway, and the sun comes out, reflecting off the wet asphalt like a mirror. The glare can blind you momentarily, making it difficult to gauge the distance to the car in front of you or spot any hazards. Polarised lenses filter out this reflected light, giving you a much clearer view of the road and reducing the chances of missing important details while driving in bright or reflective conditions.