No research into the road safety effect of different types of lamps for public lighting and vehicle lighting has been found (see below). We do not expect a large effect as long as the lighting complies with the present guidelines and legislative framework.
Public lighting
There are different types of lamps for public lighting: halogen sodium and metal halide lamps, such as SON-T and SOX-E; compact fluorescent lamps, such as TL-S and Luminlux; and LED lamps. The different types vary in efficiency, light colour, extent of light diffusion and dimmability, which means different lamps may be used for different roads. Due to environmental considerations, LED lighting is favoured more and more [43]. As long as the lamps and luminaires comply with the guidelines for public lighting, no effects on road safey are to be expected.
Vehicle lighting
For vehicle lighting three types of lamps are used: halogen lamps, xenon lamps and LED lamps. These types differ in price, efficiency, lifespan, costs and luminous intensity. Traditional halogen lamps are more and more often replaced by xenon or LED lamps. These lamps have a higher efficiency and a higher luminous intensity. Correct mounting of these lamps in the correct luminaires is essential to prevent glare for or from oncoming traffic. Glare for or from oncoming traffic is a recurring complaint with regard to these new lamps. The colour of the light shining from LED lights (‘blue’ light) is often complained about as well. There is, however, no research that proves that xenon lamps or LED lamps negatively affect road safety.
There is a large difference in quality of bicycle lights and of the luminous intensity of the lamps used. So far, no research has been done into the road safety effect of these different bicycle lamps.
