As the UK summer heats up, motorists are reminded to wear appropriate eyewear to protect themselves against glare and keep all road users safe.

Failure to do so could see you hit with an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points should police deem you to be driving without due care and attention.

Rule 237 of the Highway Code states that drivers should slow down or pull over if they become “dazzled by bright sunlight.”

This means that, although it’s not a legal requirement to drive in your shades, you could be breaking the law if you don’t slow down or stop if you become temporarily blinded by the sun.

And in particularly serious cases, police have the power to take the matter to court, where a fine could rise to £5,000.

When it comes to choosing sunglasses it’s essential you pick the right pair, as some could severely hamper your driving.

For example, category four sunglasses are illegal to wear when driving as they let less than 8% of light through the lenses, while variable tint lenses should also be avoided behind the wheel.

UK sunglasses should be labelled with a category, so avoid category four glasses that should also be marked as ‘not suitable for driving and road use.’

For more information on summer driving trips – including how to avoid a summer breakdown – read RAC’s guide to staying safe in the sunshine.