Night Driving on I-285: Why Do the Lights Look Streaky?

If you’ve ever driven I-285 - known locally as “The Perimeter” - after dark, you know how intense it can be. Between heavy traffic, construction zones, and the glare from headlights and streetlights, night driving around Atlanta already demands your full attention. But if you’ve noticed lights looking streaky, star-shaped, or smeared instead of crisp and clear, your eyes may be trying to tell you something.

Why Do Lights Look Streaky at Night?

Seeing streaks, halos, or starbursts around lights at night is often caused by how light enters the eye. When the eye isn’t focusing light properly, bright points - like headlights or overhead lamps - can appear distorted. This is especially noticeable on roads like The Perimeter, where high-intensity lighting and fast-moving traffic amplify visual imperfections.

Astigmatism and Night Driving

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing evenly on the retina. Instead of a single sharp image, light scatters, causing distortion.

At night, when pupils naturally dilate to let in more light, the effects of astigmatism become more noticeable. For Atlanta drivers, this can mean:

• Headlights appearing stretched or streaked

• Traffic lights looking star-shaped

• Difficulty judging distances on fast highways like I-285

• Increased eye strain and fatigue during evening commutes

Even mild astigmatism can significantly affect night vision, especially in high-traffic areas like metro Atlanta.

Could It Be Early Cataracts?

Cataracts are often thought of as an age-related condition, but early changes can begin long before vision feels “cloudy” during the day. In the early stages, cataracts commonly show up as night vision problems first.

Signs of early cataracts include:

• Halos or streaks around headlights

• Increased glare from oncoming traffic

• Reduced contrast, especially on dimly lit stretches of The Perimeter

• Feeling less confident driving at night, even with glasses

Because I-285 combines bright lights with darker sections and constant motion, cataract-related glare can feel particularly overwhelming for Atlanta drivers.

When Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?

If streaky lights, glare, or halos are becoming more noticeable - or if night driving feels stressful or uncomfortable - it’s time for a comprehensive eye exam. Updating your prescription, identifying astigmatism, or catching cataracts early can make a significant difference in both comfort and safety on the road. An eye exam can determine whether your symptoms are caused by refractive issues, lens changes, or another eye health concern - and help you see clearly again, day and night.

Find Out What’s Affecting Your Night Vision at Atlanta Eye Group

Driving I-285 at night is challenging enough without streaky lights and glare making it harder to focus. If headlights and streetlights look distorted or smeared, it may be a sign of astigmatism or early cataracts - both of which can be diagnosed and managed with proper eye care. Clear vision is essential for navigating Atlanta’s busiest highways safely, especially after dark.

If night driving on The Perimeter has become uncomfortable or frustrating, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Atlanta Eye Group. Our team can identify the cause of streaky lights and help you see clearly and confidently - whether you’re commuting on I-285 or driving anywhere around Atlanta. Visit our offices in Atlanta, Alpharetta, or Kennesaw, Georgia, or call (772) 272-9470 to book an appointment today.