Government commissions research into headlight glare following College involvement in campaign

Headlight glare is a modern-day problem that results in many drivers, particularly older drivers, refraining from driving in the dark due to safety concerns.

The government has commissioned much needed research into the causes of night-time headlight glare, after the College and other supporters have been campaigning to tackle the issue.

The College lobbied on behalf of the optical sector, in collaboration with colleagues from the RAC, and supported by member of the House of Lords, Baroness Hayter of Kentish Town.

It is thought that the introduction in recent years of brighter LED headlamps, and the increasing number of larger SUV-type vehicles on the road, combine to help create uncomfortable glare from oncoming traffic at night

The headlights on SUVs are higher up than on smaller vehicles, which means they can shine directly into the eyes of an oncoming driver

A 2023 survey commissioned by The College of Optometrists found that 76% of UK drivers found night-time headlight glare to be an issue when driving

Research plans

The Department for Transport (DfT) has commissioned TRL1 to undertake initial research to understand the factors that can cause glare, and how to address them.

The project will run from October 2024 into the Spring of 2025. TRL will instrument a car and use it to measure light levels experienced by drivers during real driving on UK roads. In order to build a complete understanding of the conditions that are most likely to give rise to high brightness levels, and glare, the following factors will be taking into consideration:

other vehicles
weather conditions
ambient lighting
The College and other stakeholders will be involved in a review of scientific evidence This is to ensure that the project generates actionable recommendations for the Department for Transport to take forward in international working groups related to the issue.