Majority of U.S. Drivers Say Headlight Glare Is a Serious Issue

AAA survey finds 6 in 10 motorists believe the problem has gotten worse over the last decade.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:53pm

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According to a recent AAA survey, over 60% of American drivers believe that headlight glare is a persistent issue, with 73% of those impacted saying the problem has gotten significantly worse over the last 10 years. The vast majority of respondents cited oncoming traffic as the main source of glare, though side and rearview mirrors were also identified as contributors to the problem.

Why it matters

Headlight glare has become a major safety concern for millions of drivers, with the issue exacerbated by brighter LED headlight technologies and the growing popularity of taller vehicles like pickup trucks. Addressing this problem could improve nighttime visibility and reduce accidents.

The details

The AAA survey included 1,092 interviews with U.S. adults and found that 92% of drivers cited oncoming traffic as the main source of headlight glare, while about a third also pointed to side and rearview mirrors. Pickup truck owners reported the least amount of glare issues at 41%, compared to 66% in the general population. Women and those with prescription eyeglasses were also more likely to report problems with glare.

  • The AAA survey was conducted in 2026.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, and conducts research on transportation-related issues.

Greg Brannon

Director of automotive engineering and research at AAA.

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What they’re saying

“Headlight glare has become a major source of frustration and concern for millions of drivers. As vehicle lighting technology evolves, so must our understanding of glare, its impact, and the steps drivers can take to maintain safety.”

— Greg Brannon, Director of automotive engineering and research at AAA

What’s next

AAA recommends that drivers avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights, keep their windshields clean, and consider using glare-reducing glasses to help mitigate the issue. The organization also suggests that drivers advocate for new legislation and regulations around headlight technology to address the growing problem.

The takeaway

Headlight glare has become a significant safety concern for the majority of American drivers, with the problem exacerbated by advances in lighting technology and the rise of taller vehicles. Addressing this issue through a combination of driver education, product improvements, and regulatory changes could help improve nighttime visibility and reduce accidents.