Expert warns LED headlight glare could lead to serious crashes

A leading eye surgeon has warned that LED headlight glare is becoming a serious safety issue, with nearly all UK drivers saying modern headlights are too bright. The warning comes as new Government-funded research reveals that 96 percent of drivers feel the brightness of headlights has increased to an uncomfortable and distracting level.

Dr Romesh Angunawela, consultant ophthalmic surgeon at OCL Vision and Moorfields Eye Hospital, has called for tougher rules on headlight intensity in the forthcoming Road Safety Strategy.

Drivers avoiding night journeys

In a survey of 1,850 drivers, 97 percent reported being regularly or occasionally distracted by oncoming headlights. Over half said glare has led them to reduce their night driving, or that they would prefer not to drive at night at all.

This pattern of behaviour will be familiar to trainers supporting anxious or vulnerable pupils, particularly those newly qualified or returning to driving after a long break.

Why LED glare is proving so problematic

While LED headlights provide better road illumination for the car using them, Dr Angunawela explained that the wavelength and intensity of the light can cause dazzle for other drivers. Those wearing glasses or contact lenses are more susceptible because light scatters more easily through any smearing or deposits on lenses or windscreens.

Older drivers are also disproportionately affected due to natural changes in the eye that increase glare sensitivity.

What needs to change

According to Dr Angunawela, even momentary glare when travelling at speed could have “deadly” consequences. He argues that headlamp regulations have not kept pace with modern lighting technology and says the Government must update the rules to reflect the strength of today’s LED systems.