Guiding Light: AAA offers tips for driving during the equinox | News

Tomorrow marks the first day of fall, a day that many Arizonans look forward to, if just for the cooler weather.  There are a few hazards for drivers though, as the sun is rising and setting immediately due east and west, making it difficult for some drivers to see during their commutes. This will be especially true tomorrow and for a few weeks afterward.

“Arizona’s roads are built on a grid system, which means the sun will be directly in the line of sight of commuters who head east for work and west for home during the equinox,” said Linda Gorman, director of communications and public affairs, in a recent news release. “This can make it difficult to see traffic signals, pedestrians and other vehicles. AAA advises drivers to take precautions in order to avoid being blinded by the sun during this time.”

AAA Arizona is offering these helpful tips to drivers, so that they might safely navigate the fall equinox:   

• Slow down. If your vision is diminished by persistent glare, give yourself more time to react to situations on the road by reducing your speed.
• Utilize sun blocking/shading tools that can provide protection for your eyes and prevent glare, such as sunglasses and sun visors.
• Keep your windshield clean, both inside and out. A dirty, cracked or pitted windshield can obstruct your view or even magnify glare.
• Consider alternative routes to limit east/west routes, if possible. Additionally, consider altering commute times to avoid driving during sunrise and/or sunset.

For more information, visit AAA.com/traffic safety.