A government-commissioned report has found that 97% of UK drivers report being dazzled by oncoming vehicle headlights, prompting consideration of new regulations. The Department for Transport study on glare from vehicle lighting revealed widespread concern, with 96% of drivers perceiving most or some headlights as too bright.
The report, which surveyed a nationally representative sample, found that 70% of drivers believe whiter-coloured lights are responsible for the problem. Higher vehicles were identified as a particular issue, with 47% of drivers attributing glare to cars with higher ride height, compared to just 8% for lower vehicles. The increasing popularity of SUVs and LED headlights, which are significantly brighter than traditional halogen bulbs, has exacerbated the issue.
The report suggests four potential measures, including adapting lighting regulations. It notes that current rules test headlamp output based on the lamp itself rather than the observer, which may not adequately address glare. The Department for Transport could develop proposals for regulatory amendments based on the findings.
Lilian Greenwood, then future roads minister, said at the time the research was commissioned: “All types of road vehicle headlamps are designed, tested, and approved to internationally recognised standards… However, noting increased public concern about headlamp glare, Government has commissioned independent research to better understand the root causes and develop potential countermeasures.”
Data from the Department for Transport shows that dazzling headlights have been noted as a factor in collisions, with the highest number recorded in 2013 at 369 and the lowest in 2020 at 196, influenced by Covid-19 lockdowns.
