Almost half of drivers didn’t realise it was illegal to drive without their prescribed distance or contact lenses, with one in four admitting having done this. According to the new data from the College of Optometrists, 36 percent of drivers said they had simply forgotten.
Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, Clinical Advisor at The College of Optometrists commented on the need for drivers to get their eyes checked regularly.
He said: “At the College we want to strongly urge drivers to wear their spectacles or contact lenses if they have been prescribed for driving.
“Driving without them, no matter how well you think you can see, is reckless and can put yourself and others in danger.
“Optometrists will never prescribe glasses or contact lenses if you don’t need them, so refusing to wear them when recommended really is putting other road users at risk.
“We suggest that all drivers get their sight checked regularly. Most people should have their eyes examined at least every two years, depending on their clinical circumstances.
“This is especially important for those over 40. You should ask your optometrist how often they recommend you have an eye examination based on your clinical needs.
“Do contact your optometrist if you notice any changes in your sight, or are having any problems with your eyes – do not wait for your next scheduled eye examination.”
For anyone taking a driving test, the first step of the exam is to be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away.
This is also the generally accepted test to see if the driver’s eyesight is good enough.
Worryingly, 18 percent of drivers say they have missed a turning because they were unable to see the sign.
In addition to this, 36 percent of drivers said they have never had their eyesight tested specifically for driving as more than one in 10 say they have never visited an optometrist.
Paramdeep said it was important for drivers to speak with family and friends about their eyesight when it comes to driving.
He continued, saying: “I would encourage anyone who’s felt unsafe due to someone’s eyesight to have an honest conversation and prompt them to see an optometrist.
“Having regular eye exams can help detect these conditions and help manage the symptoms from getting worse. Some of the conditions that can become more prominent with age can impact your sight when driving immensely.”
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