Posted on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 at 8:29 am    

Headlight glare from newer vehicles is a hot topic for drivers and lawyers alike. While LED headlights do tend to illuminate the road more effectively, many drivers find them uncomfortably bright, even potentially blinding.

Obviously, losing your vision while on the road can be dangerous in a car accident situation and deserves a little attention beforehand. Fortunately, the Tiemann Law Firm is here with a blog about the tech behind the glare, the legal conversation surrounding it, and more.

The Glare Debate: Perception vs. Reality

The crux of the issue lies in the difference between perception and scientific fact.

  • While a significant portion of drivers report being blinded by LED headlights, some safety organizations like AAA haven’t found a direct link to increased car accidents.
  • Complaints mostly stem from the fact that LEDs, though not inherently brighter, emit a bluish-white light that can be harsh on the eyes.

A Multifaceted Problem

Several factors contribute to the glare issue:

  • Headlight Height: SUVs and trucks have headlights positioned higher, shining directly into oncoming car windows.
  • Misaligned Headlights: Improper headlight alignment can cause excessive glare.
  • Aging Population:As our population ages, drivers may find it harder to adjust to new headlight technology.

The Legal Outlook

Like other accidents, any motor vehicle collision stemming from blinding headlights hinges on the duty of care and negligence.

  • When a driver is blinded by high beams, many courts find that said driver must either stop or adjust speed downward to the point where a stop is possible if obstructions are in the road.
  • This means drivers blinded by high beams who proceed to strike something could be found negligent and thus liable. It all depends on whether the court feels the driver fulfilled their duty of care to adjust speed accordingly.
  • Tailgating, weather conditions, and other factors can play a role as well.
  • Everything changes if the driver with their high beams on is flashing them on and off constantly in a fit of road rage. In these types of circumstances, negligence will almost certainly lie with the raging driver flashing their high beams, not the blinded one.

Headlight glare is never fun, but it can also be dangerous, so remember to get your headlights checked regularly for proper alignment and to utilize your high beams safely whenever possible.

Accidents Involving Headlight Glare

Injured in an accident involving blinding high beams? Our personal injury attorneys will bring more than 25 years of experience to bear and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, same-day consultation by calling (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: (800) 712-2000.

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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

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I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.