HELLA highlights solutions amid headlight glare review

29 October 2025  

HELLA is urging garages to prioritise OE-quality bulbs and proper alignment to reduce glare and improve road safety, amid reports the government is considering new rules to protect drivers from headlight glare.

Road Safety GB said on October 28 the rules could be ushered in as part of an expected Road Safety Strategy, following research into the issue on behalf of the Department for Transport.

HELLA said modern headlights, particularly LEDs, provide higher light outputs and more focused beams than traditional halogen lamps, making proper alignment more critical than ever.

Dave Clark, lighting product and brand manager, said: “While brighter headlights improve road safety by increasing visibility, improper alignment, higher-mounted lamps on SUVs and crossovers, and the intensity of advanced lighting technologies can all contribute to driver discomfort and reduced confidence.

‘Right balance’

“It’s essential to achieve the right balance between illumination and safety.”

Workshops have a key role to play in addressing headlight glare. Misalignment caused by suspension changes, vehicle load, or incorrect installation can significantly increase dazzle for other road users.

HELLA recommends using OE-quality bulbs, replaced in pairs, to maintain even performance and reduce glare-related problems. The company also highlights the growing adoption of adaptive front lighting systems, automatic headlamp dipping, and asymmetrical light distribution, which enhance visibility while reducing glare.

Aftermarket reported on an RAC survey last February that indicated a quarter of UK motorists were cutting back on driving at night because modern vehicle headlight systems were too bright.