With the Department for Transport (DfT) research confirming headlight glare is getting out of hand, new data reveals just how serious the issue has become for UK drivers this winter.
Car insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk are supporting the calls for tougher regulations on the brightness of LED headlights, following a new survey that shows the problem is getting worse for UK drivers.
This comes after Tiger.co.uk’s survey revealed 92% of motorists have been dazzled by oncoming headlights while driving at night, and 81% believe the issue has become more of a problem in recent years.
Alarmingly, 72% admitted they’ve even had to slow down or stop their car because they’d been dazzled.
While brighter LED headlights improve visibility for the driver, their powerful beams can easily dazzle others, especially when misaligned or retrofitted into cars not built for them.
The growing popularity of taller vehicles, such as SUVs, adds to the problem by directing beams straight into the eye line of smaller cars.
Even a few seconds of temporary blindness can prevent drivers from spotting hazards in time, which is a danger that increases as the nights grow longer.
Last year, the government commissioned an independent study into bright car headlights, with a report expected in the next few weeks.
The research aims to better understand the causes of glare and develop recommendations, which could include tightening safety standards.
Until stricter regulations are introduced, drivers are urged to only use high beams in low-traffic areas with no oncoming vehicles.
It’s important to adjust headlights when carrying heavy loads, as the added weight can tilt the rear of the vehicle downward, causing the headlights to angle upward.
It’s also crucial to upgrade lights responsibly, making sure any new bulbs are compatible with the existing headlight housing.
Regularly checking headlight alignment and cleaning lenses can also help reduce glare and improve overall visibility for everyone on the road.
Ian Wilson, Managing Director and car insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk said: “More drivers will be driving in the dark in the upcoming months, and that means a greater risk of being dazzled by overly bright headlights.
“What used to be an occasional annoyance has now become a widespread safety concern affecting almost every driver on the road.
“Our survey shows that most motorists have experienced being dazzled, and many have even had to slow down or stop their cars as a result.
“This kind of distraction can be dangerous, especially on fast-moving roads or in poor weather conditions.
“LED technology has made headlights brighter and more efficient, but it’s clear that regulations haven’t kept pace with the technology.
“Until stricter rules are introduced, drivers can help by being wary of these concerns. Simple actions like dipping beams early, keeping lenses clean, and checking their headlight alignment regularly can all help make the roads safer for everyone.”
Tiger.co.uk provides drivers with the tools they need to find savings on all sorts of essentials such as breakdown cover and car insurance
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