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04th Nov 2024

Almost 90% of drivers say LED headlights are too bright and pose a danger to others

Nina McLaughlin

They’re causing chaos on the roads, according to reports.

The vast majority of drivers in the UK think that LED headlights are too bright, ITV reports, with nearly nine in ten drivers voicing concerns over their brightness, a new study reveals.

According to findings from an RAC-commissioned survey, 89% of drivers in the UK feel that LED headlights are too bright, posing a potential hazard for other road users.

The majority—85%—reported that headlight glare has noticeably worsened, leading to calls for regulatory scrutiny on lighting standards for modern vehicles.

Originally introduced as a high-efficiency alternative to halogen bulbs, LED lights are now standard on many new vehicles.

While their concentrated beams provide enhanced visibility for drivers, this benefit often comes at the expense of those facing these vehicles on the road, causing discomfort and reduced visibility.

The RAC study highlights that two-thirds of respondents find themselves having to slow down to cope with the intense brightness of LED headlights.

Alarmingly, 64% of drivers believe the lights’ brightness is significant enough to potentially cause accidents, underscoring the need for further investigation into the impact of LEDs on driver safety.

The data points to a growing frustration among UK drivers, many of whom believe LED headlights are contributing to hazardous conditions, particularly in low-light or foggy settings.

As the adoption of LED technology continues to rise, road safety advocates are urging manufacturers and regulators to consider adjustments in headlight intensity to balance visibility with safety for all road users.

Topics:

cars,driving