Motorists urged to make 'simple' driving changes as headlight glare impacts travel for millions

Research revealed that many headlight beams were found to be too high and shining directly into other drivers' eyes rather than illuminating the road surface.

The issue has become particularly pressing during the darker evenings this autumn, with road safety organisations highlighting that a straightforward adjustment could dramatically improve night-time driving conditions.

Experts have now detailed that while modern LED technology often receives criticism for excessive brightness, the fundamental problem frequently stems from basic misalignment that motorists can rectify themselves.

Last week, the RAC revealed that four out of five motorists expressed concern about excessively bright vehicle headlights, with the issue becoming the primary factor causing anxiety amongst those who feel nervous about night-time driving.

The motoring organisation's survey discovered that amongst the 38 per cent of respondents who experience apprehension when driving after dark, three-quarters attribute their unease specifically to bright headlights.

The problem has prompted significant behavioural changes, with one in four affected motorists reducing their night-time driving, whilst an additional 22 per cent report wishing they could avoid evening journeys but have no alternative.

The findings emerge as the Government prepares to publish an independent report this week, commissioned following sustained campaigning by the RAC, The College of Optometrists, IAM RoadSmart and Baroness Hayter.

Mark Reece, a motoring specialist at RevMonkey, explained that many motorists incorrectly assume LED technology is solely responsible for the dazzling effect, when in fact the culprit is often headlights positioned at an excessive angle.

"Instead of lighting up the road, they're pointing directly at oncoming traffic, which can completely dazzle another driver and cause dangerous reactions behind the wheel," Mr Reece stated.

The misalignment issue proved surprisingly widespread, particularly following bulb replacements, encounters with potholes, or when vehicles carry substantial loads that alter their balance.

Experts explained that incorrectly angled beams create hazardous conditions by directing light into drivers' eyes rather than onto the road surface where illumination is needed, potentially triggering dangerous responses from temporarily blinded motorists.

The process for checking headlight alignment requires parking on level ground approximately two metres from a wall, then activating dipped headlights to observe where the beams strike the surface.

Both beams should appear level and angle slightly downward, with most vehicles featuring adjustment screws near the headlight assembly that allow for precise positioning corrections.

Mr Reece added: "It's a simple fix that can make a huge difference. You might think your lights are fine because you can see clearly, but if they're angled too high, you're putting everyone else at risk. Taking five minutes to check your beam aim helps keep everyone safer, especially during darker autumn evenings."

Nicholas Lyes from IAM RoadSmart noted that November typically experiences increased collision rates due to diminished grip and visibility, with headlight dazzle now contributing additional concerns for motorists.

"It's a timely reminder to check headlight aim, ensure lenses are clean, and replace any faulty bulbs promptly and carefully," Mr Lyes advised, while recommending drivers modify their speed and extend stopping distances during darkness to compensate for reduced visibility.

Last week, during a Westminster Hall debate, MPs gathered to call on the Government to introduce urgent changes to tackle headlight glare in the UK.

Transport Minister Simon Lightwood explained that the Government would bring in new requirements for mandatory automatic headlight levelling systems in September 2027.