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Vanity first? Middle-aged Brits risk road safety with poor eyesight

Millions of drivers aged between 35 and 55 are regularly taking to the roads and risking accidents through not being able to see adequately, reveals a new study released today. One in five (20 per cent) of middle-aged drivers in the UK has driven knowing that they have poor eyesight, according to the study by the College of Optometrists.

The study also revealed that as well as driving with poor eye sight, nine per cent of middle-aged Brits operate heavy machinery knowing their eye sight isn’t correct. Over a quarter (28 per cent) admitted that they put off going for a sight test for up to six months after noticing their eyesight had deteriorated – and a startling 21% put it off for up to 5 years.

When asked the reason why they put off going for an eye test 43 per cent of people said that wearing glasses would make them feel older. A quarter of those who said they wouldn’t seek optical advice claimed it was because they ‘couldn’t be bothered’ and almost a fifth (18 per cent) said they didn’t visit the optician because of the cost of glasses and contact lenses.

The study showed that middle-aged men are the worst culprits when it comes to looking after their eyes, with almost one in three stating they wouldn’t go for a sight test if they noticed a deterioration in their eyesight.

For more information go to  www.lookafteryoureyes.org

 

Tip 1:

By law in the UK, a driver of a car or motorcycle must be able to read in good daylight (with spectacles or contact lenses if worn) a number plate with symbols 97.4mm (3 inches) high from a distance of 20.5 metres or 20 metres if the number plate displays a narrower fault. If you cannot meet this standard it is an offence to drive and your insurance may be invalidated. Regular eye examinations will help to ensure you get the most from your vision and are a vital health check – make sure you have your eyes examined around every two years.

Tip 2:

Always wear an up to date pair of spectacles or contact lenses while driving, if they are needed. Driving with uncorrected defective vision is an offence punishable with a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and possible disqualification.

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