Drivers have been left divided over whether a certain kind of headlight that is growing in popularity on new models should be banned.
Whilst LED headlights are widely fitted to modern cars to reduce energy consumption and improve visibility, many road users have complained that they create glare that could result in accidents.
Rod Dennis, spokesperson for the RAC, previously called on the Government to review current legislation with a view to restricting how bright the controversial headlights can be.
He explained: “Our figures suggest drivers are more concerned than ever about headlight glare, with a huge proportion wanting to see something done about it.
“We urgently need the Government to take a closer look at the issue, ideally by commissioning an independent study to understand what’s causing an increase in reports of dazzling and, most importantly, what can do be done to keep drivers safe.”
What do you think? Vote below and join the debate in the comments. Can’t see the poll? Click here
Currently, drivers are banned from fitting LED headlights to a vehicle that was originally designed to use more convnetional halogen or xenon bulbs, with those that do failing their next MOT.
However, the law does not restrict drivers from using the lights if the vehicle was fitted with them in the first place, with many of the latest models featuring them as a way of saving energy.
A number of frustrated motorists have started petitions which call for a ban on the headlights, with one recording more than 14,000 signatures in 2024. Whilst the Government responded to the petition, they stated that a ban could not take place without further evidence.
According to a survey of 2,000 motorists conducted by the RAC, 89 percent of Brits think that some headlights on vehicles are too bright, with 28 percent stating that they produce more glare for other road users than ever before.
The problem is particularly bad for oncoming road users, with 67 percent stating that they often need to slow down considerably to avoid causing an accident, particularly on unlit roads in the countryside.
Soberingly, around 100 drivers that took part in the study stated that glare from bright headlights resulted in them having an accident, with many feeling less confident to travel at night as a result.
Nevertheless, some studies have shown clear benefits for road users who are around vehicles with LED headlights.
According to some ophthalmologists, drivers who are dazzled by LED lights are often able to recover at a much quicker rate than those who encounter a bright set of halogen bulbs.
Nevertheless, the College of Optometrists recently warned that LED headlights fitted to larger and taller models, such as SUVs, could worsen cases of ‘uncomfortable glare’ for others on the road.
