TRL said LED lights used in vehicles are brighter, more concentrated and emit more blue light, which human eyes struggle with more at night.
The RAC’s senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “Having campaigned hard for this study, we welcome its findings which independently confirm what drivers have been telling us – that rather than being an imagined phenomenon, some bright headlights do cause a glare problem.
“While drivers clearly benefit from high-performing headlights, it’s important this doesn’t lead to others suffering the effects of dazzle, so a balance needs to be struck,” he added.
Mr Dennis said that it is “vital” TRL’s report is “reviewed carefully to put us on a path towards changes that ultimately benefit all road users.”
Denise Voon, a clinical advisor at The College of Optometrists, said the DfT should “take immediate, actionable steps to support drivers and commission more detailed research, specifically into how headlight regulations need to change”.
