Drivers need to be mindful of two factors that can exacerbate the impact of ‘headlight glare’, which occurs when the lights of a vehicle blind drivers. Providing guidance for drivers, the RAC highlighted that individuals experiencing this issue could have one of two conditions, both of which are often asymptomatic in the early stages and may go unnoticed.
In a video posted on Facebook, motoring experts engaged in a conversation with Denise Voon from the College of Optometrists, discussing factors that can affect one’s perception of glare while driving. Denise raised the question: “How does headlight glare affect your eyes as you age?”
She responded: “As you age, you may become more susceptible to certain eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, which can worsen your sensitivity to glare. Therefore, it is crucial to have regular check-ups with your optometrist so that any developing conditions, often symptomless in the initial phases, can be detected early and managed.”
According to the NHS, glaucoma is a condition that damages the main nerve connecting the eye to the brain. Although anyone can develop glaucoma, it is most prevalent in individuals aged fifty and above.
Cataracts occur when the eye lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision and eventual vision loss, as per the NHS. While this condition typically affects older adults, it can also impact younger individuals.
Even though individuals may experience ‘headlight glare’ without having either of these conditions, it is essential to undergo regular eye examinations as cataracts and glaucoma can exacerbate sensitivity to glare. Research by the RAC indicates that blinding headlights are increasingly problematic for drivers, affecting individuals of all age groups.
Studies conducted by the organization reveal that drivers under the age of 35 are ‘more prone to consider most vehicle headlights as excessively bright.’ In another Facebook video, RAC Senior Policy Officer Rod Dennis suggested that this trend could be attributed to changes in car design. He elaborated: “The issue could stem from the alignment of your headlights.
“An improperly aligned headlamp might be directing light in incorrect directions on the road, inadvertently causing glare for other drivers. This shift could be linked to advancements in headlight technology.
“In the past, vehicles predominantly used yellowish halogen headlights, whereas nowadays, full LED headlights are more common—a technology entirely different from before.”
The expert further explained: “The problem might also arise from the use of retrofit LEDs, which are easily accessible online but not compliant with UK road regulations, potentially creating hazardous levels of glare. Additionally, variations in vehicle height could play a role. More drivers now operate vehicles with higher ground clearance, leading to issues for those in lower vehicles when it comes to glare.”
Efforts to address this issue are ongoing. The Department for Transport’s new Road Safety Strategy outlines the government’s intention to ‘conduct further investigations to identify the vehicle design factors contributing to increased headlamp glare.’