A recent AAA survey indicates increasing driver concern about headlight glare and its impact on nighttime visibility. The findings indicate that glare is a widespread issue and may be intensifying, raising continued attention on roadway safety and vehicle lighting standards.
Headlight Glare Reported by Majority of Drivers
According to AAA, six in ten drivers report that headlight glare is a problem when driving after dark. Among those affected, nearly three-quarters say the issue has worsened over the past decade.
Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering and research at AAA, noted that glare has become a significant concern for many drivers. He stated that as vehicle lighting technology continues to change, understanding glare and its impact remains important for maintaining safety.
Oncoming Headlights Identified as Primary Source
Drivers most frequently attribute glare to oncoming vehicles. AAA found that 92% of drivers who experience glare cite oncoming headlights as the primary source. In addition, about one-third of respondents report glare affecting their visibility through rearview or side mirrors.
AAA indicated that several factors may contribute to the issue, including newer headlight technologies and the increased presence of taller vehicles on the road.
Variations Across Driver Groups
The survey also identified differences in how drivers experience glare:
- Drivers who wear prescription glasses report higher incidence rates, with 70% indicating glare as an issue compared to 56% of those who do not wear corrective lenses.
- Pickup truck drivers are less likely to report glare at 41%, compared to 66% of drivers of other vehicle types.
- Female drivers report glare more frequently at 70%, while 57% of male drivers report the issue.
- AAA found no statistically significant relationship between age and the likelihood of reporting glare.
- Driver height also does not appear to significantly influence glare experiences.
Advancements in Vehicle Safety Technology
Alongside concerns about glare, AAA reported improvements in nighttime pedestrian automatic emergency braking systems. Testing showed that impact avoidance increased from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025.
AAA noted that some of this improvement may be linked to enhanced sensor visibility associated with headlight design.
Driver Recommendations for Reducing Glare
To support safer nighttime driving, AAA recommends several steps for drivers:
- Ensure headlights are clean, fully functional, and consistent with the original equipment manufacturer design.
- Avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights to help maintain visibility.
- Seek professional inspections and adjustments through approved repair facilities to ensure proper headlight alignment.
AAA stated that it will continue researching headlight glare and will work with industry stakeholders to balance roadway visibility with glare-related concerns.
Survey Methodology
The survey was conducted from February 5 to 8, 2026, using a probability-based panel representing approximately 97% of the U.S. household population. Most responses were collected online, with phone interviews conducted for participants without internet access.
AAA completed 1,092 interviews with U.S. adults age 18 and older. The overall margin of error is plus or minus 4% at the 95% confidence level. Smaller subgroups may have larger margins of error.
About AAA
Founded in 1902, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel planning, financial services, and insurance offerings to more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States.
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