Only a full sight test will ensure people’s vision is safe for driving, warn eye experts as part of Road Safety Week.
Optical professionals advise that the current system of self-assessment endangers road users and the public as there is no requirement for a sight test.
“With poor vision involved in almost 3,000(1) road casualties every year, we believe the current system is inadequate,” said Lynda Oliver, Acting Chair of the Optical Confederation.
“Driving rules are currently too weak to protect road users and the public as drivers are asked to declare themselves fit to drive without knowing whether their eyesight meets the legal standard,” she said.
Relevant checks should be made on all drivers involved in accidents, with police asked to rule out visual impairment, insists the Optical Confederation.
“A driver involved in an accident may claim they did not see the other road user – yet police may not even think to question their eyesight. There is no routine check of eye health and consequently there is almost no data in the UK about the role that poor vision may play in road safety.”
The Optical Confederation is advocating tougher vision testing to be introduced.
Ms Oliver said: “The current number plate test is inadequate. The test does not measure visual acuity accurately, is not carried out under controlled conditions and does not accurately check distance or peripheral vision.
“Once a person has been issued with a driving licence the system relies on self-reporting and there is no requirement for a sight test even for drivers over 70 years of age. Road users can protect themselves and others by getting an eye health check with a local optician, an easy step that can give them confidence that their vision is safe for driving.”
The Optical Confederation is calling for a standard and comprehensive vision test for motorists, a requirement for drivers to provide evidence that their vision meets the requirements when renewing a licence every 10 years, and that police forces should be asked to rule out poor vision in road traffic accidents.
To coincide with Road Safety Week, the Optical Confederation, in conjunction with Brake, has also published a new, updated briefing on driving and vision and a fact sheet for drivers. Both can be downloaded via this link from the Optical Confederation’s website.
