Quarter of drivers affected by bright headlights drive less at night as a result
The College of Optometrists has collaborated with the RAC on its latest research into the issue of headlight glare. Under-35s, and those in conventional height vehicles, are more likely to say headlights are too bright, though three-in-10 SUV drivers still say most are.
Denise Voon, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists
“However, more motorists are experiencing issues with their vision while driving at night earlier than we’d expect them to be impacted by age-related eye conditions, such as cataracts. We look forward to the findings from the government’s headlight glare research project and hope this evidence enables the industry to find a solution that will reduce headlight glare and make driving at night safer for everyone.”
Rod Dennis, RAC Senior Policy Officer
“With the exception of potholes, few motoring topics seem to rouse as much interest among the nation’s drivers right now as bright headlights. It’s undisputable that public concern is increasing, but the reasons for glare and what can be done to reduce it aren’t nearly as clear. That’s why we’re pleased the Government heeded the calls of the RAC and our partner organisations on this issue and commissioned an independent project to look into it. We’re aware other European countries are now taking the matter seriously, too.
“What has gone from a mere frustration is now having a profound impact on people – whether that’s momentarily being blinded while driving or struggling to judge the speed or position of a vehicle ahead. The fact such a high proportion of people are also driving less at night – or wish they could – is remarkable and demonstrates the need for glare to be tackled. This does, however, need to be balanced with the potential road safety benefits afforded to people driving vehicles with brighter headlights.
“Our research does suggest that the difference in height of vehicles affects how drivers perceive glare, as does the colour of headlights on oncoming traffic. It also appears to be more of a problem on unlit roads, where drivers’ vision is subjected to greater levels of contrast.
“We hope our findings prove to be valuable to both industry and government in understanding the effects dazzling headlights are having on drivers. At the same time, we’re pleased to be able to dispel some myths around the topic, such as the one that headlight glare is something that affects only older drivers. Interestingly, drivers under the age of 35 are more likely to say most vehicle headlights are too bright.”
Baroness Dianne Hayter
“As this detailed study shows, virtually every driver experiences the problem of over-bright headlights, and many find the dazzle sufficiently problematic to stop or reduce their driving at night, with real social and other costs. The RAC has produced the evidence, now the Government needs to take action – whether on the colour, intensity or angle of these glaring lights.”