Motorists struggling with intense glare from oncoming headlights are being urged to consider two common eye conditions that could be silently worsening the problem. The RAC has issued advice highlighting that cataracts and glaucoma, often symptomless in early stages, can significantly increase a driver's sensitivity to dazzling lights.
The Hidden Health Factors Behind Dazzle
In a recent video discussion, the RAC spoke with Denise Voon, a representative from the College of Optometrists. She explained the link between age, eye health, and glare perception. "As you get older, you can be more prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma, and this can make your perception of glare a lot worse," Voon stated.
She emphasised the critical importance of regular optometrist visits. These check-ups can detect conditions that develop without early symptoms, allowing for timely treatment. The NHS describes glaucoma as damage to the optic nerve, most common in adults over fifty. Cataracts involve a clouding of the eye's lens, leading to blurred vision and primarily affecting older adults, though younger people can also be impacted.
Beyond Health: Vehicle Design and Technology
While underlying health issues can exacerbate glare, the RAC's research points to other significant factors affecting drivers of all ages. Rod Dennis, a Senior Policy Officer at the RAC, suggested several vehicle-related causes in a separate briefing.
Potential causes identified include:
- Headlight alignment: Incorrectly set headlamps can cast light in the wrong direction, dazzling other road users.
- Technology shift: The move from traditional, yellower halogen bulbs to brighter, whiter full LED headlights changes the nature of the light on the road.
- Illegal retrofits: The use of non-road-legal LED conversion kits, easily bought online, can create dangerous levels of glare.
- Vehicle height: The increasing popularity of taller vehicles like SUVs can cause problems for drivers in lower-sitting cars.
Notably, the RAC's study found that drivers under the age of 35 are more likely to report that most vehicle headlights are now too bright.
Ongoing Investigations and Driver Advice
The issue has garnered official attention. The Department for Transport's latest Road Safety Strategy includes plans to investigate the vehicle design factors responsible for increased headlamp glare. This government-led research aims to pinpoint the exact causes behind the growing problem reported by motorists nationwide.
The overarching message from motoring and optical experts is clear: while modern car technology may play a role, drivers should not overlook their personal eye health. Proactive, regular eye tests are a crucial step for anyone who finds night-time driving increasingly uncomfortable due to glare, ensuring that any silent, symptomless conditions are caught and managed early.
