A common driving habit at traffic lights is drawing fresh scrutiny in the UK. Experts are reminding motorists that keeping their foot on the brake while stationary can expose drivers behind them to unnecessary glare, particularly during dark evening commutes.
Why Brake Lights Are Sparking a New Debate
Modern LED brake lights have become the focus of an online dispute after motorists complained about their brightness in stationary traffic, according to WalesOnline.
The discussion began when a frustrated Reddit user urged drivers to engage their parking brake rather than continuously pressing the brake pedal, claiming the intense rear lights were “burning their retinas.”
Responses revealed differing habits. Some motorists acknowledged routinely holding the footbrake at traffic lights, while others noted that newer vehicles equipped with automatic brake-hold systems can make the situation harder to avoid.
The complaints echo a wider debate over increasingly bright LED headlights, which some drivers say cause uncomfortable glare on the road.
With winter approaching and more commuters traveling after sunset, the visibility of brake lights in traffic has become another concern.
What the Highway Code Actually Says
The UK’s Highway Code already addresses the issue through Rule 114, which provides specific guidance on using brake lights in stationary traffic.
The rule states:
“In stationary queues of traffic, drivers should apply the parking brake and, once the following traffic has stopped, take their foot off the footbrake to deactivate the vehicle brake lights. This will minimise glare to road users behind until the traffic moves again.”
The wording establishes an important distinction. Drivers are not being instructed to release the brake immediately upon stopping. They should first ensure that following traffic has come to a halt before switching to the parking brake.
The recommendation aims to reduce unnecessary glare without compromising vehicle stability.
There is no specific penalty simply for keeping the footbrake pressed while stationary. Rule 114 nevertheless provides clear guidance on the behavior expected of considerate motorists.
Experts Explain Why a Small Change Matters
Gareth Roberts, a representative of LeaseCar.uk, addressed the debate as the company encouraged drivers to reconsider their habits during darker months.
“It’s easy to see why this topic has generated so much debate online,” Roberts said.
He pointed to similarities between complaints about headlights and the discomfort caused by illuminated brake lights.
“In recent years we’ve seen a lot of discussion about whether modern LED headlights are too bright. Drivers often complain about how bright oncoming lights are and how they can leave them dazzled. Brake lights can cause a similar problem to drivers behind, but it’s something many motorists may not think about.”
The issue is particularly noticeable in slow-moving queues, where vehicles remain close together and following motorists may face illuminated rear lights for extended periods.
What Drivers Should Do When Traffic Stops
The recommended practice is straightforward for vehicles with conventional braking systems: stop safely, wait until the vehicle behind has stopped, then apply the parking brake and release the footbrake when appropriate.
Drivers using auto-hold technology may encounter different brake-light behavior depending on their vehicle’s design. Such systems can maintain braking pressure without continuous pedal input, so drivers should consult their vehicle’s operating instructions.
Roberts emphasized that the guidance is intended to improve comfort for motorists sharing the road.
“The Highway Code recommends you take your foot off the footbrake once following traffic has come to a stop. Where it’s safe and practical to do so, it’s a small change that can help reduce glare and make journeys more comfortable for other road users.”
The advice applies specifically to stationary queues of traffic, where Rule 114 recommends using the parking brake and deactivating the brake lights once following vehicles have stopped.
