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As per government order, bright vehicle headlights can cause glare to oncoming drivers Study has confirmed.
Research conducted by consultancy TRL, found vehicle lighting to be a “real issue”, The RAC survey revealed that 33 per cent of 1,850 UK drivers are now driving less at night or have stopped driving altogether Due to glare light.
The study involved more than 50 hours of night-time testing on the road.
A car equipped with a camera that detects headlight brightness – the amount of light emitted – and other sensors recorded the observations.
It found that observers were more likely to report glare from oncoming people vehicles When high brightness was recorded.
Other factors that increase glare include traveling uphill or traveling around a right-hand turn, as the driver’s eyes are more likely to fall within the headlamp’s throw.
The researchers also noted a tentative indication that larger vehicle size, such as SUVs, may be more linked to brightness.
22 percent of respondents said the problem means they would like to reduce their night driving but have no choice but to continue.
Dr Shaun Hellman, who led the research at TRL, said: “This research provides strong evidence that glare from vehicle lights is a real problem for UK drivers, and can be measured in real driving conditions.
“By combining scientific measurements with the driver approach, we now have a clear understanding of the conditions under which flares occur and the factors that contribute to them.
“These objective findings are a first step toward bringing real complaints within the scope of scientific evaluation.”
Rod Dennis, RAC senior policy officer, said: “Having worked hard on this study, we welcome its findings which independently confirm what drivers have been telling us – that rather than being a hypothetical phenomenon, some bright headlights do cause glare problems.
“While drivers clearly benefit from high-performance headlights, it is important that this does not cause glare to others, so a balance needs to be maintained.
“It is important that the report and its views are now carefully reviewed to put us on the path to changes that will ultimately benefit all road users.”
A transport department The spokesperson said: “We know headlight glare is frustrating for many drivers, especially as it gets dark in the evening.
“That’s why we commissioned this independent research to better understand the causes and effects of glare and to help inform future negotiations on international vehicle standards.
“As well as this, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) is stepping up surveillance to stop the sale of illegal retrofit headlamp bulbs for road use, and anyone caught could face a fine of up to £2,500.”