The DfT said the situation is “a complex issue, so we plan to build on this work with further targeted vehicle-based research to help inform future international lighting regulations”.
Such a move would generally be supported by road-safety organisations, although the RAC’s senior policy officer, Rod Dennis, said: “It’s important to remember that brighter headlights can give drivers a better view of the road ahead – so there’s a balance to be struck.”
But he added: “The RAC looks forward to the publication of the Government’s report and hopes that it helps explain why so many drivers report struggling to cope with dazzling headlights – whether that’s due to changes in technology, the fact more of us than ever are driving vehicles that sit higher on the road, or for some other reason. We also hope it comes with recommendations that lead to road users feeling safer behind the wheel at night.”
In the meantime, one way authorities, such as the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), are attempting to reduce glare is by cracking down on illegally retrofitted LED and xenon bulbs. These can direct light directly into oncoming motorists’ eyes, rather than on the road, if they are not calibrated properly.
The DfT said: “The DVSA has stepped up surveillance to intercept the sale of illegal retrofit headlamp bulbs for on-road use, and anyone caught could face a fine of up to £1,000.”
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