Navigating through solar eclipse: Do's and don'ts for drivers
What's the story
When the Moon aligns perfectly with the Sun, casting a shadow over the Earth, it's a moment of wonder that draws people outdoors.
However, for drivers, certain precautions and considerations must be taken into account to ensure safety.
Here's a guide to the do's and don'ts for drivers to navigate safely during the solar eclipse happening on April 8.
Planning
Plan your route
Before venturing out on the day of the eclipse, plan your route and schedule to steer clear of heavy traffic and congestion.
If you're keen to observe the event, park your car safely and activate both parking and hazard lights to signal your presence to other vehicles.
To view the eclipse, ensure you have proper eclipse glasses as regular sunglasses won't provide adequate protection.
Monitoring
Stay alert
Drive with headlights on to ensure visibility to oncoming traffic and maintain a clear view of the road, especially during potential darkness caused by the eclipse, even if brief.
Additionally, monitor your speed to protect yourself and others on the roads in case of any mishaps.
Stay vigilant for distracted drivers who may be startled by sudden darkness or focus on the eclipse.
Potential hazards
Avoid taking photos
Refrain from taking photos while driving, as diverting your attention from the road can increase the risk of accidents.
Instead, focus entirely on driving, maintaining awareness of your surroundings and potential hazards.
Avoid wearing protective glasses while driving as they reduce the amount of light reaching your eyes, potentially impairing your view of the road.
Detours
Avoid relying on GPS
While GPS navigation serves as a valuable aid in route planning, its reliability can diminish, particularly during events such as a solar eclipse, where traffic patterns may become unpredictable.
Relying solely on GPS may lead to unexpected detours or delays.
Therefore, it's essential to exercise common sense and adhere to local traffic laws and signage for safe navigation.