Headlight Glare on UK Roads: Government Research & What You Need to Know

Headlight glare is becoming an increasing issue for UK drivers, with new developments in LED technology and the rise of SUVs contributing to the problem. The UK government, aware of the growing concerns, has commissioned research to better understand and address headlight dazzle, which many motorists say impacts their night driving experience.

As a leading used car dealership, Pershore Motor Group is committed to keeping drivers informed about critical road safety updates and regulations. Here’s what you need to know about headlight glare, what’s being done, and how it may affect you on UK roads.

What Is Headlight Glare and Why Has It Increased?

In the UK, 89% of drivers surveyed by the RAC reported that some car headlights are too bright. This problem has been magnified in recent years by the rise of LED headlights, which emit a brighter, whiter light compared to traditional halogen bulbs. While these lights provide better visibility for drivers using them, they often cause intense glare for oncoming traffic, especially on rural roads without street lighting.

Another key factor is the increase in larger vehicles, like SUVs, on UK roads. SUVs sit higher than standard cars, positioning their headlights at a height that’s closer to the eye level of drivers in smaller vehicles. This is especially problematic when headlights are not properly aligned.

74% of UK drivers have reported being dazzled while driving at night.
Misaligned headlights are another major contributor, with 44% of drivers noting that improper alignment worsens the problem.

The Government’s Response: What’s Being Done?

In response to growing concerns and a petition signed by over 11,000 drivers, the Department for Transport (DfT) has announced research into headlight glare. The goal is to investigate the causes and find solutions to reduce the impact of dazzling lights on UK roads.

Currently, the government has set 2027 as the deadline for introducing automatic headlight levelling systems in all new vehicles. These systems will ensure headlights remain correctly aligned, reducing the chances of glare.

While official crash statistics don’t yet show a direct rise in collisions due to headlight glare, the government’s decision to invest in this research reflects the importance of ensuring driver safety.

Why Are LED Headlights the Main Culprit?

LED headlights have rapidly become standard in modern vehicles. They offer better efficiency, longer lifespans, and improved brightness over halogen bulbs. However, the focused beam of light that LEDs produce is much more intense, and the human eye struggles to quickly adjust to this type of lighting.

High-beam assist technology, used in newer cars, helps automatically dim the headlights in the presence of oncoming traffic, but this feature is still being rolled out across various car models.

What Can UK Drivers Do to Reduce Glare?

While the government is working on long-term solutions, drivers can take several measures to help reduce headlight glare in the meantime:

Regularly check headlight alignment: Misaligned headlights can cause unnecessary glare for oncoming traffic. Make sure your vehicle’s lights are properly adjusted, especially if you drive an SUV.

Use dipped headlights: Where possible, use your car’s dipped headlights, particularly when driving in well-lit areas or on roads with significant traffic.

Ensure your windshield is clean: A dirty windshield can refract incoming light, making glare even worse.
Opt for anti-glare glasses: If you struggle with glare, consider purchasing a pair of anti-glare glasses for driving at night.

How Does This Impact UK Road Safety?

Although headlight glare has not yet been directly linked to a significant increase in accidents, 64% of UK drivers believe that excessive brightness from oncoming vehicles is a safety risk. For drivers on rural roads or motorways at night, the risk of being dazzled by bright headlights is particularly high.

The UK government’s research will focus on understanding how the brightness and positioning of modern headlights affect driver visibility and exploring the possibility of stricter regulations. In the meantime, drivers should stay vigilant, check their headlight settings, and take precautions when driving at night.