Drivers forced off roads as bright headlights cause havoc for millions of Britons

Concerningly, more than three-quarters (76 per cent) of Britons believe the problem is getting progressively worse.

Motorists noted that bright headlights make it more difficult to see other drivers (50 per cent) and road signs and markings (49 per cent).

One-fifth of drivers admitted that they plan to drive less once the clocks go back as a result of being dazzled, while three per cent plan to stop driving at night completely.

This is expected to have a significant impact on many people, with drivers fearing that they will see friends and family less, and 21 per cent say they feel more isolated.

A handful of motorists (six per cent) said they had been forced to cancel medical appointments because they didn’t want to drive in the dark.

Rod Dennis, RAC senior policy officer, said millions of drivers would have to deal with the “unwelcome effects of headlight dazzle” as the days get shorter.

He added: “Our latest figures uncover an uncomfortable irony: the very headlights that illuminate the road for drivers and keep them safe could be doing the polar opposite for others by temporarily blinding them.

“This is leading to people feeling less confident and safe behind the wheel, and in some cases is stopping them driving in the dark altogether. The impact of this on their lives shouldn’t be underestimated.”

Experts have suggested that modern vehicles could be part of the problem, with new LED headlights emitting a brighter, more targeted white light.

Older vehicles tend to contain halogen bulbs, which produce a yellow hue and are less likely to dazzle other motorists.

SUVs have also become more popular in recent years, meaning the lights are more targeted at the eyeline of motorists in smaller vehicles.

A Government-commissioned report confirmed that some brighter modern headlights are more likely to cause glare to other vehicles, which was welcomed by the RAC, but said more still needed to be done.

Mr Dennis stated: “Let’s be clear – good forward lighting plays a vital role in keeping drivers safe and nothing should compromise that. But when this comes at a cost to other road users, including motorists themselves, something must change.

“We don’t feel vehicle lighting regulations sufficiently consider the effects of very bright lights on other road users.

“We badly need to establish the correct amount of light needed to give drivers the best view of the road ahead without dazzling those in oncoming vehicles.”

The Department for Transport published new guidance this morning on the importance of minimising headlight glare and its effects.

It highlights the Highway Code, which states that drivers must not use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

It adds that drivers should not pass other vehicles or road users when full beams are activated. They should also ensure that the system has been dipped automatically, or dip the lights manually.