HARRISBURG, Pa. — A solar eclipse is expected across North America on Monday, April 8. Excitement across the state is building, which could lead to distractions for motorists.
In some areas, the sky will darken as if it's dawn or dusk. The duration of totality will be up to four minutes and 27 seconds in some locations, almost double that of 2017's eclipse.
AAA is offering the following tips for those caught out on the road during the astronomical event:
1. Do not watch the solar eclipse while driving. Instead, find a safe place to park to safely observe the eclipse. If you do park to view the eclipse, NASA warns that you should not look at the sun without proper eye protection. The safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses” or hand-held solar viewers. Do not drive with eclipse glasses on.
2. Drive safely. Eagerness to view the eclipse is not an acceptable reason to drive aggressively or while distracted. Do not attempt to take pictures or video of the eclipse while driving.
3. Drive with your headlights on. You will be much more visible to other drivers and your forward vision will be improved.
4. Watch out for pedestrians! There may be people standing in or along roadways to get a glimpse.
5. Watch for animals too. When a solar eclipse reaches totality, nocturnal wildlife can awaken, thinking that it is nighttime, and non-nocturnal wildlife might think it’s time to head to sleep.
6. Be alert to the possibility of increased traffic and distracted drivers swerving into your lane.
7. Other drivers may attempt to watch the eclipse and drive at the same time. To help prevent trouble, keep additional space between you and other vehicles.
8. Reduce your speed so you will have more time to make an emergency maneuver if needed.