WICHITA, Kan. — A new survey from AAA highlights a growing frustration among drivers: headlight glare. According to the report released March 24, six in ten drivers say glare is a problem when driving at night, and nearly three-quarters of those affected believe the issue has worsened over the past decade.
AAA officials say the findings are raising renewed concerns about roadway safety, evolving headlight technology and current lighting regulations.
“Headlight glare has become a major source of frustration and concern for millions of drivers,” said Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering and research for AAA. “As vehicle lighting technology evolves, so must our understanding of glare, its impact, and the steps drivers can take to maintain safety.”
The survey indicates the problem is intensifying. Among drivers who report experiencing glare, 73% say it has gotten worse over the last 10 years. Researchers point to several contributing factors, including brighter, more advanced headlight systems and the increasing popularity of taller vehicles such as SUVs and trucks, which can position lights directly into the line of sight of other drivers.
Oncoming headlights were identified as the most significant source of glare, with 92% of respondents citing them as their primary concern. About one-third of drivers also reported issues with glare reflecting in rearview and side mirrors.
Despite those concerns, AAA says advancements in vehicle safety technology may be providing some benefits. New testing shows significant improvements in nighttime pedestrian automatic emergency braking systems. According to the organization, impact avoidance rates have improved from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025, a change that could be partially linked to improved headlight design and better visibility for vehicle sensors.
AAA officials say the challenge moving forward will be balancing brighter, more effective lighting with reducing discomfort and potential hazards for drivers sharing the road.