Bright headlights bring out yellow glasses to cut glare

Q A few years ago I read an article about bright LED headlights. They recommended using yellow sunglasses to cut the glare. I asked the opticians at Kaiser about this.

They confirmed that yellow sunglasses were, indeed, good, and had some on sale for $50, but I was able to get yellow safety goggles at Harbor Freight for only $2!

They slip on over regular glasses, when needed, and work wonderfully. I keep them handy in the car and slip them on when a car with bright LED headlights is approaching.

They are also helpful during rainy weather.

— Steve White, Newark

A Thanks for this tip. A number of drivers report using yellow-tinted glasses to cut down on the glare of LED headlights.

Q Thank you for your article about bright LED headlights. They are, indeed, blinding and it is scary to drive at night.

I have a solution that's not perfect, but makes a big difference. At a garage sale, I found a pair of yellow “sunglasses.” The bright LED lights turn into a yellowish color that is not blinding and I now drive with confidence at night again.

It's not just old people who are endangered by these headlights.

— Woutje Swets, Santa Cruz

A And…

Q My friend uses yellow glasses at night when driving, and I do, too. It takes some getting used to, having two sets of glasses on the nose, but it's well worth it.

— Arlene, San Jose

A And still more…

Q My suspicion is that what is actually causing the glare problem is high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps. These are much brighter than conventional halogen lamps and have more blue light content than halogens. They are often found on higher-end cars.

One solution to headlight glare is to use special amber-colored glasses for nighttime driving.

— Bob Steele, Redwood City

Q I just wanted to let you know you are missed. We hope that if you have health or other challenges going on, they will soon be taken care of, and you and your wife can get back to your regular routine. I really appreciate your column. I am on the road all day and you have taught me to be a better driver, even though I have personal views regarding the blinker. :)

— Daniel Chapman and others

A Thanks for your messages and good wishes. I did have a health scare. After excellent medical care, love and support from family and friends, I am rebuilding strength, and very glad to be pounding out Roadshow again.