The increasing brightness of modern vehicle headlights has become a significant concern amongst drivers, safety experts, and the general public. While advancements in lighting technology aim to improve driver visibility, they have inadvertently introduced new hazards for other road users but the power of the brightness of vehicle headlights can have a significant impact on road collisions, including a high risk of fatal accidents on our roads.
A Widespread Problem
Modern car headlights, particularly LED lamps, are designed to enhance driver visibility. However, many drivers report that these lights worsen safety for others on the road. An RAC survey found that 89% of drivers believe at least some car headlights are too bright, with 91% of these drivers reporting regular dazzle while driving. This issue is especially problematic for older drivers or those with sensitive eyesight. Even after corrective surgeries like cataract replacements, some individuals find that bright headlights make night driving challenging.
The problem isn’t limited to a specific type of vehicle. Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, often have higher-mounted headlights, increasing the risk of glare. Additionally, the misuse of front fog lights in clear weather conditions contributes to the blinding effect experienced by many drivers.
Rear Lights and Urban Driving
The issue extends beyond headlights. Overly bright rear brake lights can also dazzle drivers, particularly in urban traffic settings. This problem is exacerbated when drivers use their foot brake instead of the handbrake while stationary, leading to increased glare for the driver behind. Such practices not only cause discomfort but also pose safety risks.
Automated Dimming Systems: A Partial Solution
Some modern vehicles are equipped with automatic headlight dimming functions intended to reduce glare for oncoming traffic. However, these systems are often unreliable. When navigating sharp bends or cresting hills, automatic systems may fail to react in time, resulting in dazzling other road users. This limitation suggests that while technology can assist, it is not a comprehensive solution to the problem.
Compounding Factors: Road Conditions
Poor road infrastructure further exacerbates the problem of dazzling headlights. Faded road markings and non-functional Catseyes make it more challenging for drivers to navigate unlit rural roads. These conditions, combined with the glare from bright headlights, create a hazardous driving environment, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Practical Advice for Drivers
While regulatory and design changes are necessary to address these issues comprehensively, drivers can take practical steps to mitigate the dangers in the meantime:
•Use Anti-Glare Rear-View Mirrors: Many vehicles are equipped with a manual switch or automatic dimming feature on the rear-view mirror to reduce glare from headlights behind you. Utilising this feature can enhance night driving comfort.
•Adjust Headlight Angle: Ensure your vehicle’s headlights are correctly aligned to prevent causing glare to other drivers. Misaligned headlights can contribute significantly to the problem.
•Avoid Unnecessary Use of Fog Lights: Only use front and rear fog lights in appropriate weather conditions. Using them in clear conditions can dazzle other drivers and is often illegal.
A Call for Action if you are Affected
The prevalence of overly bright headlights and their associated dangers highlight the need for action from both manufacturers and regulators. Stricter enforcement of headlight regulations, improved vehicle design standards, and enhanced driver education are essential steps toward mitigating this issue. Without these measures, the safety risks associated with blinding headlights will likely continue to grow.
If you have been involved in an accident resulting from being dazzled by an oncoming driver’s headlights and have sustained injuries, you may be entitled to compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB is an organisation that provides compensation to victims of uninsured or untraced (hit-and-run) drivers. Even if the driver responsible cannot be traced, the MIB can assist in processing your claim. For more information on how to proceed, you can refer to Hutcheon Law’s guide on hit-and-run claims.
