There is increasing pressure on the government to act against dangerous bright LED headlights as motorists wait for the results of a review into the issue.
The RAC last year called on the Government to commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare after finding in a survey of 2000 drivers that nine in 10 think at least some headlights on cars on the road today are too bright.
In a separate AA poll, three quarters said they have been ‘blinded’ by oncoming headlights, according to AA president Edmund King.
But the results of a government probe into the problem will not be released until the summer, Transport minister Lilian Greenwood has said.
In a written reply to a parliamentary question by Labour MP Graeme Downie, Ms Greenwood said: ‘National collision statistics, which can record headlamp dazzle as a contributory factor, do not show any discernible trend to suggest that advances in lighting technology are contributing negatively to road vehicle collisions.
‘However, noting increased public concern, Government has commissioned independent research to better understand the root causes of headlamp glare and develop potential counter measures.
‘This work is under way and is due to deliver in summer 2025.’
The RAC last year called on the Government to commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare after finding in a survey of 2000 drivers that nine in 10 think at least some headlights on cars on the road today are too bright (stock image)
Data shows dazzling headlights were a contributing factor in 216 incidents in 2023 (stock image)
The results of a government probe into the problem will not be released until the summer, Transport minister Lilian Greenwood (pictured) has said
Data shows dazzling headlights were a contributing factor in 216 incidents in 2023, up from 211 in 2022.
RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: ‘Few issues we deal with have triggered quite as much of a reaction among drivers as the brightness of headlights.’
And Mr King said: ‘Our members tell us that they are feeling the strain of brighter headlights more than ever before.
‘Conversely, they also say brighter lights enhance road safety. The problem seems to be LED lights on higher vehicles such as SUVs.’
Dunfermline and Dollar Mr Downie told the PA news agency: ‘I am glad this is something the Government is now looking at.’