The new Labour government has been called upon to tackle the growing concern over blinding headlights on Britain’s roads, amidst an ongoing Department for Transport (DfT) probe. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood commented that the DfT’s review into the safety of LED headlights hasn’t revealed “any discernible trend to suggest that advances in lighting technology are contributing negatively”, reports Birmingham Live.
Labour MP Graeme Downie, who brought up the matter in Parliament, highlighted that some drivers might not realise how their vehicle’s lights affect others, stating: “While they might illuminate the road well for the driver, they dazzle in the eyes of other road users and could be dangerous.”
He also mentioned, “In addition, technology such as automatic beam control that is more common means some drivers are less aware of the impact their own lighting might have on others.”
AA President Edmund King weighed in, saying: “Our members tell us that they are feeling the strain of brighter headlights more than ever before, as well as brighter brake and traffic lights.”
However, he added, “Conversely, they also say brighter lights enhance road safety. The Government-sponsored investigation into the use of LED lights on our roads should help clarify this issue further, as well as provide appropriate measures where needed.”
Lilian Greenwood responded in writing to Graeme Downie’s concerns about dazzling headlights, stating: “National collision statistics, which can record headlamp dazzle as a contributory factor, do not show any discernible trend to suggest that advances in lighting technology are contributing negatively to road vehicle collisions.”
She added, “However, noting increased public concern, [the] Government has commissioned independent research to better understand the root causes of headlamp glare and develop potential countermeasures. This work is underway and is due to deliver in summer 2025.”
Her comments come amidst growing calls from older drivers and other motorists for the government to make changes to headlight regulations.