28 May 2020

Driving and vision – advice and resources

Driving and vision Public health

The latest College advice and resources on driving and vision

Recent media reports on vision and driving have again highlighted the important role that optometrists have to play in assessing visual fitness to drive.

Although optometrists are only carrying out essential or emergency/urgent eye care at the moment, we recommend that anyone concerned about their vision should contact their practice via phone for advice. We would also recommend that they use our home sight test chart to check their vision safely ahead of a remote consultation. We have produced a video to help patients use it correctly.
 
Help your patients understanding the importance of good vision when driving with our free driving and vision leaflet – available for members to order.

Our public website - lookafteryoureyes.org - also has information on driving that is free and accessible for patients.

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Related further reading

Smoking, eye disease and smoking cessation strategies

An examination of the links between smoking and eye disease.

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An optometrist’s guide to cosmetics and the effects on ocular health

Optometrists should be mindful of making suitable recommendations about cosmetic use and its subsequent removal and this paper provides guidance on its effects on ocular health.

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We need to talk about driving

Given that optometrists have a key role in ensuring their patients drive with their glasses, it is important to understand why patients choose not to drive with their best vision. This article provides a summary of a study addressing this key issue.

Driving and vision