Motorists could be hit with a hefty fine for dazzling other drivers with bright headlights, which could break Highway Code rules.
Drivers navigating Britain's roads after dark frequently encounter the glare of oncoming headlights that can momentarily impair their vision.
The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 provides specific guidance on headlight usage, with section 27 stating that vehicles cannot use their lights, including hazard warning lights, in such a way that would "dazzle or discomfort" other road users.
While full beam headlights serve an essential purpose in darkness, their misuse when other vehicles approach creates genuine safety concerns.
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Drivers could be slapped with fines if they dazzle other motorists with their headlights
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This legal framework recognises that improperly used headlights represent a significant hazard, potentially compromising other drivers' ability to navigate safely.
The Highway Code reinforces this requirement as Rule 114 states: "You must not use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders."
The regulations also caution against using lights when visibility hasn't significantly reduced.
Fog lights, in particular, should only be employed when visibility is severely compromised.
Bright headlights are often identified as a serious problem on UK roads
PAPolice officers who stop motorists for dazzling other road users typically issue an on-the-spot fine of £100 accompanied by three penalty points.
However, more serious consequences could be handed out to motorists if their case is sent to court.
Court proceedings for careless driving can result in fines reaching £5,000 and nine penalty points added to driving licences. Judges also possess the authority to impose driving bans in particularly severe cases.
Such penalties would significantly impact future insurance premiums, as insurers view driving convictions as indicators of increased risk.
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The financial implications extend well beyond the initial fine, potentially affecting motorists' budgets for years following a conviction.
Experts consistently call on motorists to undertake proper headlight management, which should include several measures.
Motorists should ensure their headlights remain correctly aligned and clean to prevent unintentional dazzling.
When encountering oncoming traffic at night or during severe weather, drivers must switch from full beam to dipped headlights.
Three Highway Code rules deal with headlights
PAStationary vehicles in traffic present another consideration. Rather than keeping a foot on the brake pedal, motorists should engage the handbrake to extinguish brake lights that might dazzle drivers behind.
Other Highway Code rules deal with lighting requirements, as drivers must ensure all sidelights and rear registration plate lights are lit between sunset and sunrise, Rule 113 states.
Drivers should also use headlights at night, except on a road which has lit street lighting, with these roads usually having a speed limit of 20mph or 30mph.
The Highway Code defines night as "the period between half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise".
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