UK Tackles Dazzling Headlight Menace with Tough New Regulations

As of November 4th, 2025, the UK government is taking significant steps to address the growing issue of "dazzling" headlights on the country's roads. A recent survey by the RAC revealed that over a quarter of drivers in the UK admit to feeling anxious about driving in the dark due to the intensity of oncoming headlights.

The problem is largely attributed to the increasing popularity of LED (light-emitting diode) headlights, which are significantly brighter than traditional halogen bulbs. Additionally, the rise in taller vehicles like SUVs has exacerbated the issue, as their headlights can directly shine into the eyes of drivers in smaller cars.

To tackle this problem, the government has announced that vehicles fitted with inappropriate headlight bulbs will fail the MOT test, and vendors selling illegal bulbs could face fines of up to £1,000. A spokesperson for the Department for Transport (DfT) stated that the government is committed to addressing this issue and will be introducing new measures in an upcoming road safety strategy.

The DfT's records show that over the past decade, "dazzling headlights" have been identified as a contributing factor in a significant number of road accidents, with 2013 being the worst year on record with 369 collisions. However, the numbers have since declined, reaching a low of 196 incidents in 2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 restrictions.

Despite this, the problem remains a major concern for UK drivers, with an earlier RAC survey finding that 85% of motorists believe the issue of dazzling headlights is getting worse. The survey also revealed that 89% of drivers think at least some car headlights are "too bright," with 28% believing "most are."