Don’t swerve a sight test

Did you know an estimated 2900 road casualties are caused by poor vision every year?

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is heavily campaigning to remind all drivers of the importance of having regular eyesight tests to ensure their vision meets the legal standard.

It is well known that your eyesight deteriorates over time. Admittedly, this is a slow process, but that means you may not notice a change to your vision.

In the run up to Christmas, a survey conducted by the AOP revealed that 17 million motorists took to the road to travel around the country to visit loved ones. The shocking fact is, it is estimated nearly 1 in 10 could have been driving with vision that didn’t meet the legal standards.

Quick Facts

• In 2022, 45% of optometrists in the UK reported to have seen a patient who continued to drive despite being told their vision falls below the legal standard
• In another survey conducted by the AOP, 30% of drivers doubted whether their vision is good enough yet continued to drive.
• 62% of motorists are currently putting off having a sight test

Lesley Cree of Lesley Cree Opticians is a key advocate of the campaign and said” It is our belief that all drivers should get their eyes tests at least every two years to ensure they are not driving with eyesight that is below the legal standard. Driving with poor vision is not only dangerous to the driver but also to other road users.”

Adam Sampson, Chief Executive, Association of Optometrists added “It’s deeply concerning that a 17-year-old who can read a number plate from 20 metres away when they take their driving test, may continue to drive with no further checks for the rest of their life. We have to ask ourselves why the UK system, continues to operate under a law first introduced in 1937 to the detriment of an individuals’ safety.”

What to do if you experience eye related issues when driving?

If you have any issues with your vision, or you would like to know more about our services, please call us on 0115 933 2999 or email us and we would be delighted to help.