Complaints about headlight glare increase

The RAC is increasingly receiving complaints about headlight glare from drivers, its head of policy has said.

Simon Williams said the company now heard more complaints about the problem than potholes.

"It's very important to get to the bottom of this issue because some drivers are finding it extremely difficult to carry on driving," he said.

The BBC has also heard from drivers who have been struggling with the glare caused by cars with bright headlights.

Maidenhead driver Jane Morgan said LED ones in particular left her "with great big spots" in front of her eyes.

"I don't understand why lights are allowed to be that bright," she said.

Another driver, Anna Davies, said she found bright headlights "distracting".

"When I'm looking in my rear view mirror, sometimes I feel like someone's flashing me from behind," she said.

"They're not, the lights are just really bright."

She said she sometimes had to "look down at the floor" to avoid being dazzled.

Mr Williams said the reasons for the problem - for example, the introduction of LED lights or changes in car size - were not very well understood.

He said he hoped establishing the cause would mean they could "do something about it".

The impact of headlight glare is being investigated by Wokingham-based transport research company TRL alongside the Department for Transport.

It is looking to understand the factors that can cause glare and how to address them, and has begun practical trials.

The AA has also warned motorists to drive carefully as the shorter days and worsening weather create more difficult driving conditions.

Managing director Tim Rankin said drivers should ensure their headlights are set up appropriately after the company found an 11% rise in crashes after the clocks change.

He said many crashes could be avoided by making "small changes" to driving habits - including ensuring headlights are set up correctly.

Drivers are also being urged to carry sunglasses throughout winter and ensure their vehicles are in good condition.

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