Dazzling from oncoming headlights is becoming an increasingly common concern for drivers. If you’ve ever felt blinded by bright lights while on the road, you’re not alone. A recent RAC survey revealed that 9 in 10 drivers experienced temporary blindness from other vehicles’ headlights in the past year. Vehicles towing are often reported as being guilty of blinding on coming drivers.
This issue is worsened by the rise of LED headlights, the growing popularity of SUVs, and the longer hours of darkness during autumn and winter months. While the government has pledged to investigate the causes of headlight glare, if towing a heavy caravan or trailer don’t forget to adjust your headlight level to compensate.
Why Dazzling Is a Growing Issue
According to the RAC:
- 85% of drivers say dazzling headlights are a worsening problem.
- Two-thirds admit they’ve had to slow down after being partially blinded by oncoming headlights.
- Nearly 1 in 10 drivers are affected so severely that they avoid driving at night altogether, especially older drivers.
Factors contributing to dazzling include the increasing use of brighter LED headlights, misaligned lights, and the elevated positioning of SUV headlights and unadjusted headlights of vehicles towing a heavy load.
10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Headlight Glare
- Slow Down When Dazzled
If you’re blinded by oncoming headlights, reduce your speed gradually to give yourself time to recover. Avoid sudden braking to prevent accidents with vehicles behind you. - Avoid Looking Directly at Headlights
When facing oncoming vehicles, focus on the left-hand side of the road. Use the white line marking the edge of the lane to maintain your position safely. - Keep Your Windscreen Clean
A dirty windscreen can intensify glare. Regularly clean your glass, both inside and out, to prevent hazy buildup and improve visibility, especially during cold or wet weather. - Adjust Your Rear-View Mirror
Reduce glare from vehicles behind you by dipping your rear-view mirror. Many modern cars have an automatic dimming function, but manual adjustment works just as well. - Invest in Anti-Glare Glasses
If glare is a persistent problem, consider wearing glasses designed to reduce reflections from headlights. Avoid yellow-tinted glasses as they can darken the road and decrease overall visibility. Consult your optician for advice. - Use Low Beams Considerately
When approaching other vehicles or driving in well-lit areas, switch to low-beam headlights to minimize dazzling other drivers. - Check Your Headlight Alignment
Misaligned headlights can blind other drivers and reduce your own visibility. Regularly check and adjust them, particularly after carrying heavy loads. When towing and using rear mounted bike racks ues your car or vans headlight adjustment level switch to compensate for the extra weight at the rear. - Take Breaks on Long Night Drives
Night driving can be fatiguing, especially when faced with glare. Regular breaks help maintain concentration and reduce eye strain. - Be Aware of SUV Headlight Height
If you drive a taller vehicle like an SUV, your headlights are positioned higher than in standard cars. Ensure they’re correctly aligned to avoid dazzling other road users. - Avoid Cheap Aftermarket Bulbs
Substandard LED bulbs can produce uneven beams, increasing glare for other drivers. Always use bulbs from reputable brands and ensure they meet legal safety standards.
The Road Ahead: A Government Response
The government has acknowledged the severity of headlight glare and is commissioning research into its causes. This includes investigating the role of LEDs, aftermarket bulbs, and vehicle design. Until policies are updated, it’s essential for drivers to take steps to protect themselves and others on the road.
By following these tips, you can help reduce the risks associated with headlight glare and ensure safer journeys for everyone. Whether you’re towing a trailer or simply driving at night, reducing headlight glare is the responsibility of all road users.