Millions of motorists risk headlight issues amid calls for driving law changes to protect older Britons

Two-thirds of UK motorists have never attempted to change their vehicle’s headlight bulbs, according to new research, raising concerns from experts.

The findings come as drivers face increasingly darker journeys following the recent clock change. Even more worryingly, almost one-fifth of motorists rarely check if their front and rear lights are functioning properly.

While many modern vehicles feature LED headlights, the vast majority of cars on UK roads still rely on traditional halogen bulbs that require periodic replacement.

New research reveals a concerning trend as 85 per cent of drivers report being affected by headlight glare on British roads, with a further nine in 10 believing some car headlights are too bright.

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More than a quarter (28 per cent) of drivers claim the majority of vehicles on the road have distracting headlights.

Experts have raised specific concerns about elderly motorists, who may be particularly vulnerable to the dazzling effects of high beams, according to the RAC.

Abir Tewari, UK director of commercial operations parts and accessories at eBay, said: “We’re always keen to help customers embrace the DIY spirit when carrying out basic car maintenance, including changing those small but very important elements like the headlight bulbs.

“By fitting replacements themselves, motorists can not only save themselves money but also the hassle of trying to find a garage that can do the work immediately.”

The growing problem has caught the attention of optometrists, who are advocating for research into bright headlight impacts, especially as winter brings extended periods of darkness for commuters.

In response to these concerns, the Department for Transport has commissioned the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into headlight glare.

The project, running in Berkshire until spring 2025, will utilise specially equipped vehicles to measure light levels experienced by drivers in real-world conditions.

Researchers will analyse how various factors affect driver visibility, including other vehicles, weather conditions and ambient lighting.

The findings from this extensive study will form the basis of recommendations to be presented to the Department for Transport, which could lead to new motoring laws.

The reluctance to change headlight bulbs stems from various concerns, with 38 per cent of drivers preferring to rely on garages for this maintenance task.

A further 37 per cent cite lack of knowledge as their main barrier, while 19 per cent worry about not having the right tools or potentially damaging their vehicle.

However, significant savings await those willing to attempt DIY maintenance, according to eBay’s research across garages in London, Liverpool and Birmingham.

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