Road-safety guide

Driving at Dawn and Dusk

Driving during dawn and dusk presents unique visibility challenges due to changing light conditions, demanding increased driver vigilance.

Dawn and dusk, often referred to as 'twilight' hours, are periods of significantly reduced visibility that pose particular challenges for drivers on rural roads. During these times, the light levels are neither fully bright nor completely dark, creating a confusing and often dazzling environment. The RSA and the UK's Highway Code highlight the need for extra caution and appropriate use of vehicle lighting during these transitional periods.

One of the primary issues is glare. At dawn, the rising sun can be directly in a driver's eyes, while at dusk, the setting sun can similarly cause blinding glare. This low-angle sunlight can make it extremely difficult to see other road users, especially pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, which may be less visible against the changing background. Sun visors should be used, and sunglasses can be helpful, but drivers must also be prepared to slow down and increase their following distance to compensate for reduced visibility.

Furthermore, the contrast between light and shadow can be very pronounced during dawn and dusk. Objects in shadow can be almost invisible, while those in direct sunlight can be over-exposed. This makes it harder to judge distances, identify hazards, and interpret road markings or signs. Rural roads often have tree-lined sections or hedges that can create deep shadows, further exacerbating these issues.

The correct use of vehicle lights is crucial. Even if it doesn't feel 'dark' enough for headlights, sidelights or dipped headlights should be used to ensure your vehicle is visible to others. Many modern vehicles have automatic light sensors, but drivers should not solely rely on these and should manually switch on lights if visibility is poor. Ensuring all vehicle lights are clean and in good working order is also essential. Being extra vigilant for vulnerable road users, who may be less visible in the dim light, is paramount during these times.

A general road-safety reference. It states widely-published guidance and named standards; it makes no claim about any specific road, place, or event.

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Last updated 2026-08-05. This is a living record — findings are added as dated entries and prior versions remain visible.