A new report commissioned by the Department for Transport has found that 96% of drivers believe headlight glare is a significant problem.
The survey questioned 1,850 motorists with 97% saying they have been distracted by headlight glare from oncoming vehicles.
The research was carried out by Berkshire-based Transport Research Laboratory, which concluded there is compelling evidence that drivers being dazzled by bright headlights is a ‘genuine issue’.
The government has now confirmed it will consider introducing new measures to mitigate dazzling effects of headlight glare in its upcoming Road Safety Strategy.
The survey also found that a third of drivers said they had stopped or reduced driving at night as a result, while 22% said they would like to drive less at night but have no choice.
A major issue
IAM RoadSmart director of policy and standards Nicholas Lyes said: “This important research confirms that headlight glare is a major issue for drivers and something that should be taken seriously.
“While focus will be on amending international regulations of new vehicles, that doesn’t solve the issue with those cars on the roads today. The MOT test does provide for inspections of lights including intensity, but whether this is providing adequate safeguards for other motorists is debatable.
“In the meantime, drivers should keep their headlights clean and check their headlight settings to avoid giving others an uncomfortable nighttime journey.”
