How to Protect Your Eyes from Headlight Glare While Driving at Night

Driving at night has become increasingly difficult for many people in the UK due to the growing issue of headlight glare. In fact, a recent survey by the RAC revealed that 91% of UK drivers experience dazzling from oncoming headlights, with some cases lasting long enough to affect road safety. With the rise of LED and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, as well as the increasing size of vehicles, drivers are finding it more challenging than ever to maintain clear vision on the road after dark. Without clear vision, driving after dark can be unsafe for yourself, your passengers, and those around you.

Why Are Headlights Causing More Glare? 

Modern vehicle headlights are designed to improve visibility for drivers in the dark, but they can also cause unintended discomfort for those on the receiving end. There are a few reasons why glare has become such a widespread issue: 

• Brighter LED and HID headlights: While these lights improve visibility of the road ahead for the driver, they also emit a more intense and concentrated beam, which can be difficult for the human eye to adjust to on the receiving end.
• Vehicle size: SUVs and trucks sit higher on the road, meaning their headlights are more likely to shine directly into the eyes of drivers in smaller cars that are lower to the ground.
• Aging eyes: As we get older, our eyes become less efficient at adapting to sudden changes in brightness, making glare from headlights more irritating.
• Weather conditions: Rain, fog, and wet roads can reflect and scatter light, increasing the impact of glare. 

The Dangers of Headlight Glare 

For some drivers, the impact of headlight glare goes beyond discomfort. The dazzling effect can temporarily reduce visibility, decrease reaction times, and make it harder to see hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, or road signs. For those with existing eye conditions like cataracts or astigmatism, glare can be even more problematic, leading to a greater risk of accidents. 

How to Reduce the Impact of Headlight Glare 

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimise the effects of headlight glare and drive more comfortably at night: 

1. Keep your windscreen clean. A dirty windscreen can scatter light and make glare worse. Regularly clean both the inside and outside of your windscreen to ensure clear visibility.
2. Adjust your rearview mirror. Most modern rearview mirrors have an anti-glare setting (often a small switch at the bottom). Use this feature to reduce glare from vehicles behind you.
3. Have regular eye exams. Your vision can change over time, and conditions like cataracts or dry eye syndrome can make glare more intense. Regular eye exams help ensure your prescription is up to date and your eyes are in good health.
4. Use the right lenses for night driving. High-quality prescription glasses with an anti-reflective coating can help reduce glare and improve contrast in low-light conditions. However, be cautious of so-called “night driving glasses” with yellow-tinted lenses. Research has shown that these lenses can reduce visibility in low-light conditions rather than improve it.
5. Look slightly away from oncoming headlights. Instead of looking directly at approaching headlights, try focusing slightly to the left of the road to maintain better peripheral vision while avoiding the direct glare. 
6. Reduce interior light distractions. A brightly lit dashboard can make it harder for your eyes to adjust to darkness. Dim your interior lights to improve contrast and reduce strain.
7. Drive at a safe speed and keep a safe distance. If headlight glare is impacting your vision, slow down and maintain extra space between your car and the vehicle in front of you to give yourself more time to react. 

Protecting Your Vision for Safer Night Driving 

Headlight glare is a growing concern, but by taking the right precautions, you can reduce its impact and drive more safely at night. At Whitby & Co., we encourage all drivers to prioritise their eye health and consider professional advice when choosing eyewear for night driving. If you’re struggling with glare or night vision issues, book an appointment with our opticians for a comprehensive eye check-up and personalized recommendations. 

Your vision matters. Stay safe on the road by taking the necessary steps to protect your eyes from headlight glare.