92% of drivers dazzled by oncoming headlights

With the clocks going back and the arrival of darker evenings, motoring experts urge swift action as glare from LED headlights continues to blind drivers.

Car insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk are calling for tougher regulations on the brightness of LED headlights, following a new survey that shows the problem is getting worse for UK drivers.

This comes after Tiger.co.uk’s survey revealed 92% of motorists have been dazzled by oncoming headlights while driving at night, and 81% believe the issue has become more of a problem in recent years.

Alarmingly, 72% admitted they’ve even had to slow down or stop their car because they’d been dazzled.

While brighter LED headlights improve visibility for the driver, their powerful beams can easily dazzle others, especially when misaligned or retrofitted into cars not built for them.

The growing popularity of taller vehicles, such as SUVs, adds to the problem by directing beams straight into the eye line of smaller cars.

Even a few seconds of temporary blindness can prevent drivers from spotting hazards in time, which is a danger that increases as the nights grow longer.

Last year, the government commissioned an independent study into bright car headlights, with a report still expected this year. 

The research aims to better understand the causes of glare and develop recommendations, which could include tightening safety standards.

Until stricter regulations are introduced, drivers are urged to only use high beams in low-traffic areas with no oncoming vehicles.

It’s important to adjust headlights when carrying heavy loads, as the added weight can tilt the rear of the vehicle downward, causing the headlights to angle upward.

It’s also crucial to upgrade lights responsibly, making sure any new bulbs are compatible with the existing headlight housing.

Regularly checking headlight alignment and cleaning lenses can also help reduce glare and improve overall visibility for everyone on the road.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director and car insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk said: “With the clocks going back, more drivers will be spending time on the road in the dark, and that means a greater risk of being dazzled by overly bright headlights.

“What used to be an occasional annoyance has now become a widespread safety concern affecting almost every driver on the road.

“Our survey shows that most motorists have experienced being dazzled, and many have even had to slow down or stop their cars as a result.

“This kind of distraction can be dangerous, especially on fast-moving roads or in poor weather conditions.

“LED technology has made headlights brighter and more efficient, but it’s clear that regulations haven’t kept pace with the technology.

“We welcome the government’s ongoing review into headlight glare and hope it leads to updated standards that make night driving safer for everyone.

“Until stricter rules are introduced, drivers can help by being wary of these concerns. Simple actions like dipping beams early, keeping lenses clean, and checking their headlight alignment regularly can all help make the roads safer for everyone.”

Tiger.co.uk provides drivers with the tools they need to find savings on all sorts of essentials such as breakdown cover and car insurance.

Tiger.co.uk’s findings are based on a randomised survey of 1,000 respondents across the UK during October 2025, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.