A new survey finds that worsening headlight glare raises road safety concerns, with 73% reporting the problem has intensified over the past decade, according to AAA.

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

Most drivers who experience glare cite oncoming headlights as the primary cause, with 92% identifying it as their top concern. About one-third also report glare issues in their rearview or side mirrors.

“Driven by several factors, including new headlight technologies and taller vehicle designs, drivers are becoming frustrated with the issue of headlight glare,” said Brannon.

The survey also found that drivers who wear prescription glasses (70%) experience more glare than those who do not (56%), and female drivers (70%) report glare more often than male drivers (57%).

Pickup truck drivers are less likely to report glare (41%) than drivers of other vehicle types (66%).

The driver’s height or age does not significantly impact the likelihood of reporting glare as an issue, the survey found.

Two-lane roads, followed by highways, pose the most challenges when dealing with headlight glare.

AAA 2026 headlight glare survey