There’s a reason why UK motorists might notice an uptick in ‘dazzling’ headlights
Drivers who keep getting ‘blinded by headlights’ may be able to lessen the effect of bright headlights by making an adjustment to their car, according to the RAC. ‘Dazzling’ headlights can cause various problems when driving at night, as the lights can lead to discomfort or even increase your accident risk.
Unfortunately, RAC figures suggest the problem of dazzling headlights ‘is getting worse.’ In a recent Facebook post, RAC Senior Policy Officer Rod Dennis explained that the phenomenon could be linked to changes in car technology.
Rod asked social media users: “Have you been blinded by car headlights and wondered why? Drivers tell us that headlight dazzle is a serious problem that affects them. So, what’s going on?
“It could be down to the alignment of your headlights. An incorrectly aligned headlamp could be casting light into the wrong places on the road, and you could be accidentally dazzling other drivers. It could be down to changes in headlight technology.
“Previously, we all drove vehicles with yellower, halogen headlights. But these days, you’re much more likely to be in a car with full LED headlights—a completely different technology.”
He continued: “It could be down to the use of retrofit LEDs, like these. They’re very easy to find online, but they’re not road-legal in the UK and can create dangerous levels of dazzle. It could be down to variations in vehicle height. More of us drive vehicles that sit higher on the road, but drivers of lower vehicles say that can cause them problems when it comes to dazzle.”
It’s a problem that’s affecting both younger and older drivers, according to the RAC. Research by the organisation shows drivers under the age of 35 are ‘more likely to say most vehicle headlights are too bright.’
An investigation into the problem is ongoing, with the Department for Transport’s new Road Safety Strategy outlining the government’s plan to ‘undertake further research aimed at identifying what vehicle design factors may be responsible for increased headlamp glare.’
However, there are steps that drivers can take in the meantime that might help them when driving at night. The RAC and the College of Optometrists say drivers can ‘reduce’ the effects of headlight glare by keeping their windscreen clean and smudge-free, keeping their glasses clean and smudge-free, and staying up to date with sight tests.
“When presented with bright oncoming headlights, keep your eyes open and briefly look to the curb or side of the road until you can see clearly again. This will keep you safe and help minimise the discomfort of glare,” the RAC advises.
“In addition, adjust your rear-view mirror at night to reduce the effect of bright headlights behind you. Newer cars have self-dimming mirrors that can also help, although you may notice you still experience unavoidable glare through your wing mirrors. If you are dazzled while driving, it’s important to safely slow down, or even stop your vehicle until your vision improves.”
