Glaring problem: Why are you being blinded by bright headlights?

It’s a glaring problem facing motorists across the country, but why are headlights so bright?

A recent survey by the RAC found that 95% of drivers agreed it was an issue.

Three out of five respondents who suffer from headlight glare say the problem has worsened in the previous 12 months.

A quarter of UK drivers said they are driving less at night as they find vehicle headlights too bright.

Reasons for an increase in glare include bulb misalignment, the use of unregulated upgrade kits, and the “poor quality” of cheap bulbs.

Henry Bisson of Ring Automotive bulb manufacturers said: “One cause is misalignment, so if a bulb hasn’t been fitted correctly, it can dazzle drivers rather than putting light on the road as intended.

“Retrofitting bulbs is an unregulated market, so anyone can replace their regular bulbs with cheap HID kits or LED bulbs bought online that are not designed to conform to legal regulations.”

Mr Bisson describes the “most worrying reason” as “poor quality” bulbs, of which a rising number of brands cut costs without conducting research, testing, or quality control.

The poll of 1,866 drivers, commissioned by the car insurance company RAC in December 2024, indicated that 22% of participants tried to reduce their night driving.

Around 17% of night-time drivers say bright headlights make them feel fatigued, while 16% report headaches, migraines or eye pain.

Department for Transport (DfT) figures show that since 2013, bright headlights have contributed to an average of 280 crashes every year on Britain’s roads, including six fatal accidents annually.

A DfT spokesperson said: “We know there is increased public concern about headlamp glare – that’s why we have commissioned independent research to better understand the root causes, which will help identify potential mitigations.

“This project is expected to conclude in the summer, and we will update on its findings as soon as possible.”

RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “With the exception of potholes, few motoring topics seem to rouse as much interest among the nation’s drivers right now as bright headlights.

“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.”