June 2007
The Austrian Ophthalmologic Society bans daytime running lights
Accentuating one group of 'traffic-relevant objects' makes all the other objects less conspicuous - worst case - they might turn into sub-threshold stimuli hence escaping attention - to be overlooked .....
July 2008
Austria: since Daytime Running Lights were banned on 1 January 2008, less accidents for road users have been reported:
Minus 5% fatalities
Minus 25% biker-accidents
We endorse the Ban Daytime Running Lights in the USA! Petition to General Motors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Read the Ban Daytime Running Lights in the USA! Petition
Name
Comments
Do you own a car equipped with DRLS
Do you want The NHSTA to make DRL's mandatory?
1286 Total Signatures
Are Volvo drivers blind? - James May Sunday Mirror
From: Keith Lewis Sent: 12 October 2006 22:04To: dadrl
As a motorcycle instructor it is mandatory for me to use dipped headlights whilst instructing - I use a BIG White bike and wear a white helmet and have still had motorists pull out in front of me and my students - if a Driver cant see a motorcycle or other road user at a distance that is likely to result in a accident then lights wont make any difference.
People who use glaring lights deserve a good slapping'!!!.
Terry Wogan Radio 2
Saturday 28 November 2009
Audi R8’s. Have you found they dazzling you?
Audi R8’s. Have you found they dazzling you?
I tried to tread carefully with this driver. Being young and I assume reasonably well of and with two ladies and a friend they were staying at the Hilton Park Lane. I thought they were going to the club at the side in Hertford Street. They were not yet three sheets to the wind and possibly good research for blindedbixenon.
I quickly discovered one lady in the back had suffered at the hands of the Bi-xenon lighting system as she said the slightly blue ones that dazzle you. It often is explained like that without much prompting.
The chap behind me on the jockey seat was eager to tell me he owned an Audi R8 and how fantastic the lights were including the rather garish row of daytime running side lights that many drivers find abhorrent.
There fantastic down a country lane and main beam is not needed as the lights are so good. What about the drivers coming towards you? It does not matter as my vision is perfect. Obviously wasting my time talking to him so I suggested that he take one of my flyer's that will direct him to all the appropriate information on why he is blinding other drivers and that he read it tomorrow.
He handed it back to me saying he did not want to discredit his own car. The lady in the back then spoke up give it to me as I might vote for you.
Epilogue:
At night I have not seen an Audi R8 that has not dazzled me and the sidelights in the rain are awful to deal with. I am sure those that are day drivers with the DaDRL must have also had problems. Please comment on this blog as it will help. Luckily for the rest of us you do not come towards them too often. I do hope an Audi employee reads this as many Audi models are becoming a danger to others and I have come across a number of drivers that have had their daytime lights extinguished as they feel that it is offending other drivers. At least some people understand enough to care.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
I tried to tread carefully with this driver. Being young and I assume reasonably well of and with two ladies and a friend they were staying at the Hilton Park Lane. I thought they were going to the club at the side in Hertford Street. They were not yet three sheets to the wind and possibly good research for blindedbixenon.
I quickly discovered one lady in the back had suffered at the hands of the Bi-xenon lighting system as she said the slightly blue ones that dazzle you. It often is explained like that without much prompting.
The chap behind me on the jockey seat was eager to tell me he owned an Audi R8 and how fantastic the lights were including the rather garish row of daytime running side lights that many drivers find abhorrent.
There fantastic down a country lane and main beam is not needed as the lights are so good. What about the drivers coming towards you? It does not matter as my vision is perfect. Obviously wasting my time talking to him so I suggested that he take one of my flyer's that will direct him to all the appropriate information on why he is blinding other drivers and that he read it tomorrow.
He handed it back to me saying he did not want to discredit his own car. The lady in the back then spoke up give it to me as I might vote for you.
Epilogue:
At night I have not seen an Audi R8 that has not dazzled me and the sidelights in the rain are awful to deal with. I am sure those that are day drivers with the DaDRL must have also had problems. Please comment on this blog as it will help. Luckily for the rest of us you do not come towards them too often. I do hope an Audi employee reads this as many Audi models are becoming a danger to others and I have come across a number of drivers that have had their daytime lights extinguished as they feel that it is offending other drivers. At least some people understand enough to care.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Monday 23 November 2009
Israeli Businessman
I reported or wrote an earlier blog or letter explaining that this light problem is global. This time I managed to pick up an Israeli in South Kensington going on a short hop to the Kensington Olympia Hotel.
If I am going to get any research information on short journeys I have to act quickly. How has your day been? 24 hours travelling and business meetings. Do you drive I said? Only back in Israel where I live. Sometimes even Policeman and truckers find my questioning hard to understand so someone who has been travelling and working all day coupled with the fact he comes from another country it must seem strange to be questioned about driving back home by your taxi driver.
Once again I must have trod on something I had only travelled a short distance and a car with Bi-xenon lights were beaming straight at us in Kensington High Street. Even with all the ambient light the Bi-xenon beams hit us both in our eyes like lasers punishing the brains sense of perspective for a short while until we passed. It does happen quickly but the light is so strong your eyes take a time to recover which could lead to an accident.
I asked my Israeli passenger if he would like one of my flyer leaflets for checking information on my website blogger and twitter with extra information on my you tube video.
To my surprise he said he does a lot of driving in Israel and the new lights are causing problems there too. Taking my leaflet he said this is a very important thing you do and I will check your website out.
Epilogue:
Some drivers cope with the xenon lights better than others. The Manufacturers and dealers need to take a fresh look as well over 50% of people I research often find these new lights a problem that puts them in danger.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
If I am going to get any research information on short journeys I have to act quickly. How has your day been? 24 hours travelling and business meetings. Do you drive I said? Only back in Israel where I live. Sometimes even Policeman and truckers find my questioning hard to understand so someone who has been travelling and working all day coupled with the fact he comes from another country it must seem strange to be questioned about driving back home by your taxi driver.
Once again I must have trod on something I had only travelled a short distance and a car with Bi-xenon lights were beaming straight at us in Kensington High Street. Even with all the ambient light the Bi-xenon beams hit us both in our eyes like lasers punishing the brains sense of perspective for a short while until we passed. It does happen quickly but the light is so strong your eyes take a time to recover which could lead to an accident.
I asked my Israeli passenger if he would like one of my flyer leaflets for checking information on my website blogger and twitter with extra information on my you tube video.
To my surprise he said he does a lot of driving in Israel and the new lights are causing problems there too. Taking my leaflet he said this is a very important thing you do and I will check your website out.
Epilogue:
Some drivers cope with the xenon lights better than others. The Manufacturers and dealers need to take a fresh look as well over 50% of people I research often find these new lights a problem that puts them in danger.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
My Dubai Princess
This princess was a student that I assume was from Dubai. I never asked her age but she was studying probably at Kingston University.
Her father was probably OK as he was well heeled enough to buy his princess a nice new BMW convertible with the Bi-Xenon lights. Dad had a Range Rover.
My research on this student princess was extremely dazzling and blindingly helpful on my lights issue.
She new that her Bi-Xenon lights were very good like stadium floodlights! But had not considered that others would find them really difficult. But what was even more interesting was she sometimes drove at night with dad following in his Range Rover and had found even with the interior rear view mirror shading some of the dazzle from dad's car it was just an impossible situation.
After going through how Jaguar/Land Rover had replied to me admitting many had complained that their lights dazzle she thanked me and said she would vote on my e petition at number 10.
Epilogue:
How I know she was from Dubai she said back home almost all vehicles have the Bi-Xenon lights and cars without actually look odd. The roads are very different and the standard of driving is far worse than in the UK.
Her father was probably OK as he was well heeled enough to buy his princess a nice new BMW convertible with the Bi-Xenon lights. Dad had a Range Rover.
My research on this student princess was extremely dazzling and blindingly helpful on my lights issue.
She new that her Bi-Xenon lights were very good like stadium floodlights! But had not considered that others would find them really difficult. But what was even more interesting was she sometimes drove at night with dad following in his Range Rover and had found even with the interior rear view mirror shading some of the dazzle from dad's car it was just an impossible situation.
After going through how Jaguar/Land Rover had replied to me admitting many had complained that their lights dazzle she thanked me and said she would vote on my e petition at number 10.
Epilogue:
How I know she was from Dubai she said back home almost all vehicles have the Bi-Xenon lights and cars without actually look odd. The roads are very different and the standard of driving is far worse than in the UK.
Friday 20 November 2009
The Dagenham Dustbin
I wonder if there is anyone old enough to remember this name that was used for Ford cars. The driver of a Ford Focus Zetec with the Bi-Xenon headlamps is a far cry from the old Cortinas and Capri’s like Dennis Waterman had in minder.
Never the less this driver from Fulham was of out for a wee dram so fortunately for me a good subject before the alcohol.
Questioning him on his bi-xenon’s like many drivers readily admitted that a few drivers were irritated by his lights and had retaliated with a flash. Because he did not do a lot of night driving it was only a few, but as we began to get further into why I was campaigning to get the lights lowered to a level that did not dazzle others like well over 50% of people I research he was in complete agreement and so hopefully will vote when he looks at the website.
Another thing that pleased me was he referred to his parents and said that when travelling with them his dad would have the odd groan about the brightness of the bi-xenon lights but had also noticed his mum was really bothered and if they were in her face she would flash the driver coming towards her.
This is the real problem and where my E Petition comes in he had noticed the same as his mum but after flashing the other driver retaliated with main beam which was even more powerful than the lights that were showing that were on dip but appeared to be on full.
Epilogue:
I believe that all manufacturers know that generally most drivers are being dazzled to an extent. I have confirmation in writing from Jaguar/Land Rover that they have had many vociferous complaints about their lights but had done nothing because at present they are working within the law. The amount varies from irritating to dangerous. Because the current RVLR 1989 allows this all Manufacturers will carry on selling these lights for large amounts of money with total disregard at what these lights do to others.
In my opinion most Xenon’s although good for those sitting at the wheel behind them are dangerous to all other motorists who have to deal with them.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Never the less this driver from Fulham was of out for a wee dram so fortunately for me a good subject before the alcohol.
Questioning him on his bi-xenon’s like many drivers readily admitted that a few drivers were irritated by his lights and had retaliated with a flash. Because he did not do a lot of night driving it was only a few, but as we began to get further into why I was campaigning to get the lights lowered to a level that did not dazzle others like well over 50% of people I research he was in complete agreement and so hopefully will vote when he looks at the website.
Another thing that pleased me was he referred to his parents and said that when travelling with them his dad would have the odd groan about the brightness of the bi-xenon lights but had also noticed his mum was really bothered and if they were in her face she would flash the driver coming towards her.
This is the real problem and where my E Petition comes in he had noticed the same as his mum but after flashing the other driver retaliated with main beam which was even more powerful than the lights that were showing that were on dip but appeared to be on full.
Epilogue:
I believe that all manufacturers know that generally most drivers are being dazzled to an extent. I have confirmation in writing from Jaguar/Land Rover that they have had many vociferous complaints about their lights but had done nothing because at present they are working within the law. The amount varies from irritating to dangerous. Because the current RVLR 1989 allows this all Manufacturers will carry on selling these lights for large amounts of money with total disregard at what these lights do to others.
In my opinion most Xenon’s although good for those sitting at the wheel behind them are dangerous to all other motorists who have to deal with them.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Thursday 19 November 2009
Policeman on Motorcycles
Having been a pedal cyclist and a motorcyclist I do realise how vulnerable two wheels are. Lighting at night is then much more important to the rider as it could be the difference between life and death.
Today not only do many powerful lights on vehicles dazzle/temporary blind other drivers but the same problem is also prevalent from motorcycles.
Having read an article in driving magazine on the motorcycle the Police use and how easy it should be to adjust the headlights and set them not to dazzle other road users I needed to find out from the Police direct.
I spotted two riders in Belgrave Square and proceeded to follow them waiting for my opportunity to stop them safely. Managing to get beside the straggler of the two of them whose lights in my opinion were set just a wee bit high enough to dazzle other road users my questions began to flow. This young officer was quite happy to chat with me but quickly confirmed what is happening with many new motorcycles. The headlights on these new motorcycles are so good that when drivers see them they perceive I want them to stop as my headlight appears to flash and puts the motorist of.
I knew these lights were dazzling me and others on a nightly basis but its great when an officer admits it directly. So how can we use what is a good improvement for the rider that then doesn’t then blind other road users.
Motorcyclists need to be seen and lighting on their bikes needs to be noticed. The accident rate of these motorcycles is extremely high. [For the average rider/not the Police} I believe a combination of over brightness that dazzles other drivers making it hard for that driver to see if he or she is dealing with a car with one headlamp or a motorcycle could be their own downfall.
This particular problem is going to harder to deal with than my current ongoing petition at number 10. Dazzling/blinding incidences from motorcycles is a growing concern and I believe many riders do not realise they are blinding drivers.
Having spoken to only one officer who rides a motorcycle and him giving me confirmation he has problems it appears that more thought than throwing brighter lighting at the driver/rider is not a definitive answer and needs to be looked at with more than bright lighting that is clearly detrimental to others.
Epilogue:
I don’t think reducing the brightness of the lighting plus making sure riders that carry pillions or transport large parcels remember to readjust the headlamps with the weight change and reflective marking which should glow in maybe a more uniform style than any current reflectors that make it obvious you have a motorcycle in your headlights view safety for all could be improved considerably.
I think this even for me is much more tricky than that of car headlights and if you manage to get through this blog I would love you to make the effort and give me some of your comments as there needs to be something better than what we have at the present time.
Today not only do many powerful lights on vehicles dazzle/temporary blind other drivers but the same problem is also prevalent from motorcycles.
Having read an article in driving magazine on the motorcycle the Police use and how easy it should be to adjust the headlights and set them not to dazzle other road users I needed to find out from the Police direct.
I spotted two riders in Belgrave Square and proceeded to follow them waiting for my opportunity to stop them safely. Managing to get beside the straggler of the two of them whose lights in my opinion were set just a wee bit high enough to dazzle other road users my questions began to flow. This young officer was quite happy to chat with me but quickly confirmed what is happening with many new motorcycles. The headlights on these new motorcycles are so good that when drivers see them they perceive I want them to stop as my headlight appears to flash and puts the motorist of.
I knew these lights were dazzling me and others on a nightly basis but its great when an officer admits it directly. So how can we use what is a good improvement for the rider that then doesn’t then blind other road users.
Motorcyclists need to be seen and lighting on their bikes needs to be noticed. The accident rate of these motorcycles is extremely high. [For the average rider/not the Police} I believe a combination of over brightness that dazzles other drivers making it hard for that driver to see if he or she is dealing with a car with one headlamp or a motorcycle could be their own downfall.
This particular problem is going to harder to deal with than my current ongoing petition at number 10. Dazzling/blinding incidences from motorcycles is a growing concern and I believe many riders do not realise they are blinding drivers.
Having spoken to only one officer who rides a motorcycle and him giving me confirmation he has problems it appears that more thought than throwing brighter lighting at the driver/rider is not a definitive answer and needs to be looked at with more than bright lighting that is clearly detrimental to others.
Epilogue:
I don’t think reducing the brightness of the lighting plus making sure riders that carry pillions or transport large parcels remember to readjust the headlamps with the weight change and reflective marking which should glow in maybe a more uniform style than any current reflectors that make it obvious you have a motorcycle in your headlights view safety for all could be improved considerably.
I think this even for me is much more tricky than that of car headlights and if you manage to get through this blog I would love you to make the effort and give me some of your comments as there needs to be something better than what we have at the present time.
Sunday 15 November 2009
Motorcycle Despatch Rider from Stoke Newington
14th Nov 2009 Drivers against daytime running lights will love this one http://www.dadrl.org.uk/
Being a despatch rider must be tough especially with slow traffic pedestrians’ cyclists not obeying the Highway Code.
This chap was interested in doing the knowledge but knew it to be very hard and I personally don’t think even if he registers that he will complete it.
It was what he said that confirmed what I already knew.
Quote
[To be noticed I drive with main beam on all day.]
I am seldom out daytime but have seen this too often.
Epilogue
Motorcycles may well benefit from lights in the daytime but I think it needs regulating otherwise those benefits may be lost in dazzling others.
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Being a despatch rider must be tough especially with slow traffic pedestrians’ cyclists not obeying the Highway Code.
This chap was interested in doing the knowledge but knew it to be very hard and I personally don’t think even if he registers that he will complete it.
It was what he said that confirmed what I already knew.
Quote
[To be noticed I drive with main beam on all day.]
I am seldom out daytime but have seen this too often.
Epilogue
Motorcycles may well benefit from lights in the daytime but I think it needs regulating otherwise those benefits may be lost in dazzling others.
If daytime lights are becoming a problem to you click the link below.
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Saturday 14 November 2009
Mercedes-Benz Story on Friday 13th Nov 2009
Once again Mercedes-Benz you should be listening to the customers that purchase your cars. My passion if you read my blog roll is the dangers of lighting at night and through my job I was fortunate on this stormy night to pick up a customer from the Earls Court Exhibition up from Brighton and staying in London.
Chatting about my lights issue as I often do I asked this chap about if he drives and what car etc. Being only a short journey I asked do you have Halogen lights or Xenon lights? To my surprise without any prompting he said I have the lights that annoy and blind other people.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
Chatting about my lights issue as I often do I asked this chap about if he drives and what car etc. Being only a short journey I asked do you have Halogen lights or Xenon lights? To my surprise without any prompting he said I have the lights that annoy and blind other people.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
Mercedes-Benz 200 Kompressor 270/290CDI
It was some time ago that I started this quest of improving the standard of lighting on all cars and vehicles at night.
Living close to Gatwick Airport friends and relatives often wish to leave their cars here while away to sunnier climates. This will be the 1st of two blogs. It is quite old but very important.
I was blessed with the use of two Mercedes of identical blue colour with body shape that seemed almost identical but for accessories/extras for each particular model.
The CDI was equipped with the Xenon Headlights.
The Kompressor with the Halogen Headlights and headlamp scroll adjustor.
Being fortunate at having a garden with drive of well in excess of 200metresI positioned both vehicles side by side with dipped beam on. The Xenon headlights on the dipped beam setting were almost as good as the Kompressor on main beam with the adjustor on the highest setting possible.
The result being the CDI on main beam would most definitely dazzle other drivers causing them to be in danger of dealing with the Xenon light.
Quote
In my opinion most Xenon’s although good for those sitting at the wheel behind them are dangerous to all other motorists who have to deal with them.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
Living close to Gatwick Airport friends and relatives often wish to leave their cars here while away to sunnier climates. This will be the 1st of two blogs. It is quite old but very important.
I was blessed with the use of two Mercedes of identical blue colour with body shape that seemed almost identical but for accessories/extras for each particular model.
The CDI was equipped with the Xenon Headlights.
The Kompressor with the Halogen Headlights and headlamp scroll adjustor.
Being fortunate at having a garden with drive of well in excess of 200metresI positioned both vehicles side by side with dipped beam on. The Xenon headlights on the dipped beam setting were almost as good as the Kompressor on main beam with the adjustor on the highest setting possible.
The result being the CDI on main beam would most definitely dazzle other drivers causing them to be in danger of dealing with the Xenon light.
Quote
In my opinion most Xenon’s although good for those sitting at the wheel behind them are dangerous to all other motorists who have to deal with them.
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
Monday 9 November 2009
Blindedbixenon.co in Canada
A Global Phenomenon
Blindedbixenon.co in Canada
My chosen profession as a London Taxi Driver is proving crucial in my efforts to reduce road accidents at night. Wow a second story for the blog roll on the same evening.
A Canadian Industrialist working with chemical pumps happened to be in London staying in Marylebone hailed me to go to his daughters flat in Highbury/Stoke Newington wait and return.
Once again time to chat about my lights campaign. Wow again this engineer had a Company car with the Bi-Xenon headlamps but then went on to say he actually dislikes them whilst Driving.
Keeping the message short he does little Driving at night and even though he hates Driving when others are in range who have the same lights as himself will suffer them because they do make it easier when you have them.
I then remarked what about the Driver like myself that does a full shift. 8 hours possibly with these lights constantly dazzling you.
His sympathies were with me and he was going to check my website.
EPILOG
This engineer was so on the ball about my plight I think he will go home check to see if his setting is a little high and will get AUDI to lower them to reduce the chance of blinding/dazzling other Drivers.
He also said these lights probably won’t disappear but if you get the slightly lower setting it will be generally better for most Drivers.
You can only vote if you are resident in the UK.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Canadian Residents can vote on DaDRL but at present I have not found an equivalent organisation in the Canada with the same criteria as blindedbixenon.co
I am receiving huge amounts from hits from the Canada on my twitter site http://twitter.com/ my@theblinder and if there is not one someone in the Canada I am sure will take up the challenge. Are there any Canadian citizens that are like RALPH NADER trying to take on Motor Giants? USA citizens have mentioned me in the same breath that I am like RALPH taking on the Motor Giants. Makes my efforts all the more worthwhile!
Blindedbixenon.co in Canada
My chosen profession as a London Taxi Driver is proving crucial in my efforts to reduce road accidents at night. Wow a second story for the blog roll on the same evening.
A Canadian Industrialist working with chemical pumps happened to be in London staying in Marylebone hailed me to go to his daughters flat in Highbury/Stoke Newington wait and return.
Once again time to chat about my lights campaign. Wow again this engineer had a Company car with the Bi-Xenon headlamps but then went on to say he actually dislikes them whilst Driving.
Keeping the message short he does little Driving at night and even though he hates Driving when others are in range who have the same lights as himself will suffer them because they do make it easier when you have them.
I then remarked what about the Driver like myself that does a full shift. 8 hours possibly with these lights constantly dazzling you.
His sympathies were with me and he was going to check my website.
EPILOG
This engineer was so on the ball about my plight I think he will go home check to see if his setting is a little high and will get AUDI to lower them to reduce the chance of blinding/dazzling other Drivers.
He also said these lights probably won’t disappear but if you get the slightly lower setting it will be generally better for most Drivers.
You can only vote if you are resident in the UK.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Canadian Residents can vote on DaDRL but at present I have not found an equivalent organisation in the Canada with the same criteria as blindedbixenon.co
I am receiving huge amounts from hits from the Canada on my twitter site http://twitter.com/ my@theblinder and if there is not one someone in the Canada I am sure will take up the challenge. Are there any Canadian citizens that are like RALPH NADER trying to take on Motor Giants? USA citizens have mentioned me in the same breath that I am like RALPH taking on the Motor Giants. Makes my efforts all the more worthwhile!
Blindedbixenon.co in the United States of America
Blinded in the USA
Is a short story about two Ladies from Connecticut who loved my campaign efforts!
Through the job I do as a London Taxi I have a brilliant opportunity getting news from around the Globe. These Blog Roll Stories must be written up immediately though or they lose some of there impact.
The two Ladies had come to visit as one had a daughter working and living in London. They hailed me as getting home to South Kensington just after a Chelsea Manchester United game was more than difficult. 40,000 supporters leaving will clog things up.
My opportunity was to quiz them on blindedbixenon USA. Wow as soon as I said do they Drive back home and have they seen or know of the Headlamp called Bi-Xenon. Music to my ears and almost in tune they both barked bark at me (We hate them).
I gave them a flyer leading to the website etc.
What then pleased me most of all was the lady who was visiting her daughter said even though I cannot vote my daughter will as she will do it for her.
EPILOG
These Bi-Xenon lights are not just a UK problem but a truly Global one. Blindedbixenon.co aims to get a tighter control over the height adjustment and significantly reduces instances of dazzle which is Dangerous to other Motorists confronted by the Glare which can almost disable the eyes completely leaving you defenceless.
You can only vote if you are resident in the UK.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
USA Residents can vote on DaDRL but at present I have not found an equivalent organisation in the US with the same criteria as blindedbixenon.co
I am receiving a huge amounts from hits from the USA on my twitter site at my@theblinder http://twitter.com/ and if there is not one someone in the US I am sure will take up the challenge. Just mention this as many US citizens have said you are a mini RALPH NADER trying to take on Motor Giants.
Is a short story about two Ladies from Connecticut who loved my campaign efforts!
Through the job I do as a London Taxi I have a brilliant opportunity getting news from around the Globe. These Blog Roll Stories must be written up immediately though or they lose some of there impact.
The two Ladies had come to visit as one had a daughter working and living in London. They hailed me as getting home to South Kensington just after a Chelsea Manchester United game was more than difficult. 40,000 supporters leaving will clog things up.
My opportunity was to quiz them on blindedbixenon USA. Wow as soon as I said do they Drive back home and have they seen or know of the Headlamp called Bi-Xenon. Music to my ears and almost in tune they both barked bark at me (We hate them).
I gave them a flyer leading to the website etc.
What then pleased me most of all was the lady who was visiting her daughter said even though I cannot vote my daughter will as she will do it for her.
EPILOG
These Bi-Xenon lights are not just a UK problem but a truly Global one. Blindedbixenon.co aims to get a tighter control over the height adjustment and significantly reduces instances of dazzle which is Dangerous to other Motorists confronted by the Glare which can almost disable the eyes completely leaving you defenceless.
You can only vote if you are resident in the UK.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
USA Residents can vote on DaDRL but at present I have not found an equivalent organisation in the US with the same criteria as blindedbixenon.co
I am receiving a huge amounts from hits from the USA on my twitter site at my@theblinder http://twitter.com/ and if there is not one someone in the US I am sure will take up the challenge. Just mention this as many US citizens have said you are a mini RALPH NADER trying to take on Motor Giants.
Saturday 7 November 2009
Dazzled Who Wins
Senior/Older Drivers Verses Xenon
A HID headlamp manufacturer touting the fact that a "xenon bulb produces more than twice the amount of light of a halogen bulb,"6 answered the question "Why does xenon light sometimes appear to irritate oncoming drivers?"6 by explaining that "due to the conspicuous colour of xenon light,drivers are more inclined to look in the headlamps."6 Older drivers encountering HID headlights on a winding two lane highway know that"photophilia" isn't the answer.
Night driving can push any visual system to its limits. Conventional clinical glare tests underestimate disability glare from moving light sources. Disability glare increases with increasing glare source brightness.HID headlights are brighter than conventional tungsten-halogen headlights.Thus, they cause more disability glare under identical viewing circumstances.
Visual quality declines with ageing, even in individuals with 20/20 visual acuity. Glare due to introacular light scattering increases with ageing,prompting many older drivers to curtail their night driving activities.Increased glare from HID headlights is one more visual hurdle for the older driver.
Aircraft landing lights would allow automobile drivers to see farther down a road. They would also incapacitate oncoming drivers. Brighter headlights do provide increased visibility for older drivers who use them. They also cause more glare for older drivers who confront them. The optimal balance in headlight brightness between owner visibility and viewer disability depends on the driving situation, but technologies are available for more adaptable,less bothersome headlight systems.
Governmental regulations determine which headlights we encounter. Acceptance or rejection of the current generation of HID xenon headlights ultimately depends on their record in traffic and litigation. Xenon bulbs make good headlights. They also make good glare sources. The additional light they project is valuable. Questions remain regarding how and where it should be projected. Until these questions are resolved, for many older drivers confronting stylish HID headlights on two lane roads, glare rather than beauty will be in the eye of the beholder.
This information came via the
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights ...
Would you like to help? Please go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
A HID headlamp manufacturer touting the fact that a "xenon bulb produces more than twice the amount of light of a halogen bulb,"6 answered the question "Why does xenon light sometimes appear to irritate oncoming drivers?"6 by explaining that "due to the conspicuous colour of xenon light,drivers are more inclined to look in the headlamps."6 Older drivers encountering HID headlights on a winding two lane highway know that"photophilia" isn't the answer.
Night driving can push any visual system to its limits. Conventional clinical glare tests underestimate disability glare from moving light sources. Disability glare increases with increasing glare source brightness.HID headlights are brighter than conventional tungsten-halogen headlights.Thus, they cause more disability glare under identical viewing circumstances.
Visual quality declines with ageing, even in individuals with 20/20 visual acuity. Glare due to introacular light scattering increases with ageing,prompting many older drivers to curtail their night driving activities.Increased glare from HID headlights is one more visual hurdle for the older driver.
Aircraft landing lights would allow automobile drivers to see farther down a road. They would also incapacitate oncoming drivers. Brighter headlights do provide increased visibility for older drivers who use them. They also cause more glare for older drivers who confront them. The optimal balance in headlight brightness between owner visibility and viewer disability depends on the driving situation, but technologies are available for more adaptable,less bothersome headlight systems.
Governmental regulations determine which headlights we encounter. Acceptance or rejection of the current generation of HID xenon headlights ultimately depends on their record in traffic and litigation. Xenon bulbs make good headlights. They also make good glare sources. The additional light they project is valuable. Questions remain regarding how and where it should be projected. Until these questions are resolved, for many older drivers confronting stylish HID headlights on two lane roads, glare rather than beauty will be in the eye of the beholder.
This information came via the
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights ...
Would you like to help? Please go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Friday 6 November 2009
A Senior Lawyer
Take it from me since starting research for blindedbixenon.co the can of worms is most certainly open. A senior from J & D at the back of Fleet Street. A prominent Law Firm. Being gracious he was not young in years and living more in Ibetha than the UK. Finding it impossible to drive when dark thought it was his eyes and age.
AN OPTICIAN explained much earlier to me that in simple terms when reaching 45ish and that is for us all our eyes reaction to being dazzled will take longer to recover.
This had happened to this Lawyer and {QUOTE: He said I thought it was me) an age thing that because of being older your eyes are less tolerant.
Had your prescription changed? No.
What I would like to know is how many drivers suffer because the Manufacturers VOSA the DSA Dft forgets to take this Medical advice into account?
Make Night Driving more pleasant for seniors too!
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
AN OPTICIAN explained much earlier to me that in simple terms when reaching 45ish and that is for us all our eyes reaction to being dazzled will take longer to recover.
This had happened to this Lawyer and {QUOTE: He said I thought it was me) an age thing that because of being older your eyes are less tolerant.
Had your prescription changed? No.
What I would like to know is how many drivers suffer because the Manufacturers VOSA the DSA Dft forgets to take this Medical advice into account?
Make Night Driving more pleasant for seniors too!
Go to Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
Wednesday 4 November 2009
An ADI's Story
When will the Motor Manufacturers listen?
I am still finding it amazing how I manage to pick up good stories/information for blindedbixenon.co.uk
I was handing a flyer to a Driving Instructor in the BP petrol station at Kingswood on the 217. The instructor was so pleased to hear something was trying to be done about not only the xenon headlights but also found the new LED sidelights slightly overpowering. They are very bright and can mesmerise you to the point of distraction.
If they are doing that they must be dangerous which my thoughts are completely in tune with.
What was more than interesting was this Instructor was teaching a pupil when around a blind bend came what he said he thought was one of the new AUDI’s with LED,s and Bi-xenon’s. A combination that dazzled his pupil so badly he had to take charge of the steering wheel.
Another professional about to vote on the E Petition so that these lights do not endanger others! Even better he was not an independent so will inform the other drivers at his Driving school.
I am still finding it amazing how I manage to pick up good stories/information for blindedbixenon.co.uk
I was handing a flyer to a Driving Instructor in the BP petrol station at Kingswood on the 217. The instructor was so pleased to hear something was trying to be done about not only the xenon headlights but also found the new LED sidelights slightly overpowering. They are very bright and can mesmerise you to the point of distraction.
If they are doing that they must be dangerous which my thoughts are completely in tune with.
What was more than interesting was this Instructor was teaching a pupil when around a blind bend came what he said he thought was one of the new AUDI’s with LED,s and Bi-xenon’s. A combination that dazzled his pupil so badly he had to take charge of the steering wheel.
Another professional about to vote on the E Petition so that these lights do not endanger others! Even better he was not an independent so will inform the other drivers at his Driving school.
Tuesday 3 November 2009
A City Stockbroker
His two cars were an AUDI and a Jaguar/Land Rover Freelander.
Research can be great and this City Slicker was no exception. He found my problem with Bi-xenon lighting more than interesting.
The Freelander lights although not as good as the Bi-xenon if used correctly with the scroll switch are more than adequate. He was surprised that the poor knowledge of drivers that do not use or know of its existence. Great when you can converse with other drivers that accept their lights may be a danger or irritate others.
His second car was an AUDI. Sadly I forgot to ask which model AUDI but it is one with the Daylight Running Lights. They are irritating to me in the daytime but it’s at night when they come into there own and coupled with the Bi-xenon headlights are a total disaster to someone who has sensitive eyes. There are far more drivers than the Manufacturers and the Government realise that find them a nuisance.
They are especially awful in rain mist and fog as an uneven row of lights will cause many reflections in all sorts of directions making driving even more hazardous!
The only way to get them to listen is by voting for change. You can do this by going to
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
Research can be great and this City Slicker was no exception. He found my problem with Bi-xenon lighting more than interesting.
The Freelander lights although not as good as the Bi-xenon if used correctly with the scroll switch are more than adequate. He was surprised that the poor knowledge of drivers that do not use or know of its existence. Great when you can converse with other drivers that accept their lights may be a danger or irritate others.
His second car was an AUDI. Sadly I forgot to ask which model AUDI but it is one with the Daylight Running Lights. They are irritating to me in the daytime but it’s at night when they come into there own and coupled with the Bi-xenon headlights are a total disaster to someone who has sensitive eyes. There are far more drivers than the Manufacturers and the Government realise that find them a nuisance.
They are especially awful in rain mist and fog as an uneven row of lights will cause many reflections in all sorts of directions making driving even more hazardous!
The only way to get them to listen is by voting for change. You can do this by going to
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation
Or if the Daytime running lights are what bothers you please go to
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights
The Living Streets [Safety Issues]
Dear Ken
Congratulations on your initiative. I do not know what you will think of it but, having for some years noticed the increasing power and unpleasantness of all vehicle lights - back and front - how about this proposition?
Sensors could be fitted to all new vehicles that would adapt the power of their running lights, back and front, depending on the level of ambient light. Power would be reduced in brightly lit city and suburban streets. It would revert to higher intensities in dark conditions.
I cannot think what the unintended side-effects would be but, provided they do not seem too serious, perhaps we should all start promoting this idea when in touch with Government officials.
With warmest regards
Terence BendixsonPresident
Living Streets - The Pedestrians Associationc/o 39 Elm Park GardensLondon SW10 9QF020 7352 3885
Hi Terence,
Thank you for congratulating me as many have already. If you do not know I am a London Cabbie [The Black Cab which is London’s Finest]. We do have the odd rogue amongst us. 40.000 Roughly so there is bound to be a bad apple or two. I personally have always cared about the condition of my vehicle other motorists and pedestrians. I have spoken to many people on this subject and there are rotten eggs in all baskets bad Policeman Truckers Bus Drivers. The majority of us are caring citizens so let’s get them voting making life better for us all including sadly those amongst us that would be better sent to a colony where they could ruin it for themselves and not the rest of us.
I am concentrating on the Bi-xenon headlight first as a salesman from the Guy Salmon Dealership of Surbiton explained to a customer who purchased a brand new Range Rover to be careful as his new Bi-xenon lights which came standard on the model he was purchasing would cause other drivers to flash him. This salesman was real dipstick as he then said do not worry as your vehicle passes all Government tests.
Jaguar/Land Rover admitted to me after my MP wrote to them that many organisations had complained VOCIFEROUSLY about their lights. Are they listening NO! They say it is because they pass all current regulations.
QUOTE [My MP wrote with his own hand on a reply to me :- + Which suggests that there may be a need to change the regulations!] That could not be any clearer an MP that knows the regulations are outdated!
Fancy that selling a vehicle to a customer costing over £50,000 which will blind other motorists’ cyclists and PEDESTRIANS! Then telling him because the current regulations allow this he can drive with impunity.
Before I get on your idea about sensors you also mentioned the brightness of rear lights. I have noticed that many brake lights have had the power raised and are as bright as or brighter than rear fog lights. Early models that easily noticeable are the Volvo estate Peugeot 307 and Mitsubishi Grandis but many more will be emerging and are already out there.
I have not confirmed this but Mercedes have a form of sensors fitted already but at an additional cost. The only problem is like the reply I received from Jaguar/Land Rover they refer to all their vehicles passing current regulations.
My E Petition needs voters and if Pedestrians want less dazzle when walking on pavements next to a busy road at night they also could join my band of supporters on getting the regulation on the dazzling lights changed. Drivers will still benefit they just need to be lowered a little and all that is gained from them will not be lost.
I have at present at least 20 or more ADI’s that have voted on my E Petition and have been asked to write an article for ADI News on the dangers and out of date regulations that allow these lights to dazzle and intimidate others. I also have been on TV’s The One Show BBC Radio the Surrey Mirror and Driving Magazine for Advanced Drivers and Riders etc etc.
I have just joined the ABD and made friends with recently with the DaDRL and both are good sources of info and help.
If we all work together and specialise on our own particular cause we have more chance of benefits for the future.
You can find my twitters at theblinder and my short true stories on blogger at blindinglightsetc big blinding blogger and my website at blindedbixenon.co
With the brightest warmest regards Ken
Ken
Thanks for that.
Co-incidentally I am involved in a court case in which I am giving evidence for a Black Cabbie following a crash in the Brompton Road. I was bicycling along, saw it happen and gave my card to the cabbie. His lawyers later got in touch with me. The poor bloke had the back of his vehicle hit by a motorcyclist who passed close to me as I pedalled along near the kerb, swung out to the middle of the road to pass the cab, discovered that it was joining a queue to turn right into Beauchamp Place, swung back to the left but, as she, yes SHE, was going too fast, hit the left back side of the cab. He has a whiplash injury.
And over the years I have had many blessed encounters with cabbies. You are a good lot.
Cheers
Terence
Go Living Streets on twitter http://twitter.com/livingstreets
Congratulations on your initiative. I do not know what you will think of it but, having for some years noticed the increasing power and unpleasantness of all vehicle lights - back and front - how about this proposition?
Sensors could be fitted to all new vehicles that would adapt the power of their running lights, back and front, depending on the level of ambient light. Power would be reduced in brightly lit city and suburban streets. It would revert to higher intensities in dark conditions.
I cannot think what the unintended side-effects would be but, provided they do not seem too serious, perhaps we should all start promoting this idea when in touch with Government officials.
With warmest regards
Terence BendixsonPresident
Living Streets - The Pedestrians Associationc/o 39 Elm Park GardensLondon SW10 9QF020 7352 3885
Hi Terence,
Thank you for congratulating me as many have already. If you do not know I am a London Cabbie [The Black Cab which is London’s Finest]. We do have the odd rogue amongst us. 40.000 Roughly so there is bound to be a bad apple or two. I personally have always cared about the condition of my vehicle other motorists and pedestrians. I have spoken to many people on this subject and there are rotten eggs in all baskets bad Policeman Truckers Bus Drivers. The majority of us are caring citizens so let’s get them voting making life better for us all including sadly those amongst us that would be better sent to a colony where they could ruin it for themselves and not the rest of us.
I am concentrating on the Bi-xenon headlight first as a salesman from the Guy Salmon Dealership of Surbiton explained to a customer who purchased a brand new Range Rover to be careful as his new Bi-xenon lights which came standard on the model he was purchasing would cause other drivers to flash him. This salesman was real dipstick as he then said do not worry as your vehicle passes all Government tests.
Jaguar/Land Rover admitted to me after my MP wrote to them that many organisations had complained VOCIFEROUSLY about their lights. Are they listening NO! They say it is because they pass all current regulations.
QUOTE [My MP wrote with his own hand on a reply to me :- + Which suggests that there may be a need to change the regulations!] That could not be any clearer an MP that knows the regulations are outdated!
Fancy that selling a vehicle to a customer costing over £50,000 which will blind other motorists’ cyclists and PEDESTRIANS! Then telling him because the current regulations allow this he can drive with impunity.
Before I get on your idea about sensors you also mentioned the brightness of rear lights. I have noticed that many brake lights have had the power raised and are as bright as or brighter than rear fog lights. Early models that easily noticeable are the Volvo estate Peugeot 307 and Mitsubishi Grandis but many more will be emerging and are already out there.
I have not confirmed this but Mercedes have a form of sensors fitted already but at an additional cost. The only problem is like the reply I received from Jaguar/Land Rover they refer to all their vehicles passing current regulations.
My E Petition needs voters and if Pedestrians want less dazzle when walking on pavements next to a busy road at night they also could join my band of supporters on getting the regulation on the dazzling lights changed. Drivers will still benefit they just need to be lowered a little and all that is gained from them will not be lost.
I have at present at least 20 or more ADI’s that have voted on my E Petition and have been asked to write an article for ADI News on the dangers and out of date regulations that allow these lights to dazzle and intimidate others. I also have been on TV’s The One Show BBC Radio the Surrey Mirror and Driving Magazine for Advanced Drivers and Riders etc etc.
I have just joined the ABD and made friends with recently with the DaDRL and both are good sources of info and help.
If we all work together and specialise on our own particular cause we have more chance of benefits for the future.
You can find my twitters at theblinder and my short true stories on blogger at blindinglightsetc big blinding blogger and my website at blindedbixenon.co
With the brightest warmest regards Ken
Ken
Thanks for that.
Co-incidentally I am involved in a court case in which I am giving evidence for a Black Cabbie following a crash in the Brompton Road. I was bicycling along, saw it happen and gave my card to the cabbie. His lawyers later got in touch with me. The poor bloke had the back of his vehicle hit by a motorcyclist who passed close to me as I pedalled along near the kerb, swung out to the middle of the road to pass the cab, discovered that it was joining a queue to turn right into Beauchamp Place, swung back to the left but, as she, yes SHE, was going too fast, hit the left back side of the cab. He has a whiplash injury.
And over the years I have had many blessed encounters with cabbies. You are a good lot.
Cheers
Terence
Go Living Streets on twitter http://twitter.com/livingstreets
Sunday 1 November 2009
RENAULT TRAFIC
I had a great conversation with a policeman about the headlamps. As we were fuelling our vehicles in the BP garage Lower Kingswood I asked him if other drivers had flashed his vehicle whilst he was driving. The policeman said yes many times. I asked him if he had used his headlamp adjustment switch, and once again to my surprise the Officer politely asked me to show him where his switch was, and how to use it. We met a few minutes later after filling our vehicles up in the shop and I certainly had got him thinking as he said to me I think many more road users would have flashed my wrongly set lights but for the fact I was driving a Police Van.
Just imagine if all Police vehicles had xenon lights. To stop incedents of dazzle plese vote on ly petition.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If it is a problem with the Daytime Running Lights that effect you please vote on the DaDRL link
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights ...
Just imagine if all Police vehicles had xenon lights. To stop incedents of dazzle plese vote on ly petition.
Petition to: revise the RVLR 1989 regulation ...
If it is a problem with the Daytime Running Lights that effect you please vote on the DaDRL link
DaDRL UK Vote against Daytime Running Lights ...
CHRYSLER 300C SALOON
This model also seems to have a dazzling headlight problem although not many appear to be on our streets the ones I do see generally are atrocious. Once again I managed to capture a driver whilst filling up with fuel. The driver of the 300C was very accommodating, showing me how the bixenon lights self-level with an ambient over glow from these powerful lights. He then showed me a manual switch that will override the automatic setting of the bixenon lights. To me this seems to defeat the object of self-leveling. I would appreciate anyone reading this that has knowledge of the 300C is this standard on all models as this one came via Germany and may have had special editions on it.
A manual override on lights that are supposed to be automatic just does not make sense!
I have a Petition to help reduce dazzling instances.
A manual override on lights that are supposed to be automatic just does not make sense!
I have a Petition to help reduce dazzling instances.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
