With the sun making more of an appearance, driving in sunglasses is a must - but you could be fined for wearing them.

It is the responsibility of drivers to make sure they can see, and if you have a crash which was caused by you not being able to see due to the sun, you could be charged with careless driving.

Rule 237 of the Highway Code says that if you are dazzled by bright sunlight you should slow down and if necessary stop.

There are two essential requirements for lenses to be used for driving – vision must remain clear, and sufficient light to let you see properly must get to your eyes.

The AA says that sunglasses sold for general use can be too dark or unsuitable for driving and those with too much tint could also impair your vision.

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This could result in points on your licence and a hefty fine.

The on-the-spot fine is £100, but if you're charged and sentenced in court it could be a lot higher.

You must also be careful with lenses that react to UV light because car windscreens filter out UV causing the glasses to be inadequate.

All sunglasses should carry the CE mark and meet the European Standard BS EN 1836:2005.

This could also void your insurance.

Tinted lenses are graded according to the density of the tint, and the AA says that 'filter category 4' lenses only transmit between three per cent and eight per cent of light and are not suitable for driving at any time.

Sunglasses with these lenses should, by law, be labelled 'Not suitable for driving and road use'.

The motoring organisation recommends always carrying a spare pair of sunglasses suitable for driving in your car, and having regular eye checks.

A good quality anti-reflection coating is recommended, along with a hard coating to protect the lenses from scratches.