Don’t get left in the dark: Over half of drivers could be using lights incorrectly

Aviva research reveals that over half (55%) of drivers could be improperly using their lights, severely impacting their vision and increasing the chances of a collision².

According to the research among 1,600 drivers, one in seven (14%) fail to use headlights when visibility is reduced, making it harder for motorists to see and be seen by other road users. Almost half (49%) also use front or rear fog lights at any time of the day, which could dazzle other drivers and obscure brake lights. Under and over-use of lights both contravene rules in the Highway Code (Rules 226 and  236 respectively).

The research suggests there may be a knowledge gap when it comes to the rules of the road. One in 10 motorists (10%) are unaware of the rule relating to headlight use when visibility is seriously reduced and worryingly, over two fifths (43%) do not know whether there are any rules regarding fog light use any time of the day.

Martin Smith, Motor Claims Manager at Aviva, comments: “It’s worrying to see drivers incorrectly using their lights and misunderstanding the rules of the road, particularly as our research shows that two thirds would prefer to drive rather than walk a short distance.

“Not only is this dangerous as it could make it difficult for other road users to see you, it is likely to also impact your own vision – increasing your chances of having a collision. Lights can also dazzle other drivers, particularly when roads are wet or there is snow around, so it’s important to pay particular attention when the weather is bad. With dark nights and poorer weather conditions, we’d urge motorists to take extra care at this time of year.”

Aviva’s top tips for driving in the dark or during poorer weather conditions include:

Check and check again: Immediately after starting your engine, turn on your headlights. If your lights are automatic, ensure they are working properly. While this may seem obvious, it's easy to overlook this if you’re setting off from a well-lit area.

Be considerate to other road users and adjust your headlights: Full beam headlights can help you see better but remember to dim these when you see a car approaching to avoid blinding other drivers on the road. If you find yourself struggling to see because of another driver's headlights, look slightly to the side of the road to avoid being dazzled by their high beams.

Slow down: Lights on new cars are much more powerful than older models, so if you find yourself struggling with glare, slow down and proceed with caution.

Night vision: Make sure you have regular eye tests to determine how well you can see in low light and darkness. You may need new or updated prescription glasses to ensure optimum vision when driving in the dark.

Brush up on your highway code: Take some time to remind yourself of the Highway Code during adverse weather. Though it pays to be cautious, using fog lights incorrectly could jeopardise other drivers’ vision and create a collision.

-ends-

References:

_{¹Data taken from 2,001 nationally representative UK consumers (aged 18+) from 02.10.2024 - 04.10.2024. Of these, 1,600 were drivers.}

_{²Data taken from 2,001 nationally representative UK consumers (aged 18+) from 02.10.2024. Stat found by combining those who answered: ‘I use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced’ = N, and ‘I use front or rear fog lights any time of day’ = Y.}

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