Are LED lights a safety issue because they shine so brightly?
In recent years, light emitting diode (LED) lights have become standard for most car manufacturers.
They have a longer lifespan than traditional halogen bulbs and are also typically brighter as well.
On Lunchtime Live, Keith Fay said he believes this makes cars with LEDs a risk to other road users and that he thinks “most people” agree with him.
“I made a post on my Facebook, I got in touch with the RSA, I’ve made an official complaint,” he said.
“Everyone I speak to is saying the very same thing; they’re absolutely too bright.
“In my own case I noticed this winter, when a car comes towards me with LEDs, for a split second, I lose sight of the road.
“I’m out of control and there’s nothing wrong with my eyesight - it’s perfect.”
Complaint
Mr Fay said he has consulted widely on the issue and found that in every conversation about the issue, people say “the very same thing”.
“They’re too bright; [people] don’t know how they were passed as [safe] for the road,” he said.
“The British Government has now taken action; they’re doing a full study into this based on a petition that got 10,000 signatures.
“So, I’m planning on doing the same.”
Mr Fay said even people who drive cars with LEDs believe there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
“Sometimes when a car with LEDs is coming at me, I’ve flashed them thinking they’ve got their full beams on, then they’ve flashed me back,” he said.
“It’s like a nuclear bomb has gone off - it’s so bright.
“Even people that have LEDs are saying, ‘You know what? They’re great on my car; they light up the road a lot but I see exactly what you’re talking about.’”
According to a survey by the RAC in Britain, 89% believe headlight glare is a problem that needs to be dealt with.
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