Seven in ten UK adults support compulsory eye tests for drivers to improve road safety
The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists say new research shows “current vision checks aren’t keeping pace with what’s needed to keep everyone safe on the road”
“These findings highlight the public recognises that current vision checks aren’t keeping pace with what’s needed to keep everyone safe on the road. Requiring a simple eye test when people apply for and renew their driving licence is a practical step that would support road safety and improve the nation’s eye health. Importantly, regular eye tests would help detect problems earlier so that more people, including older drivers, can drive safely for longer, while also preventing avoidable sight loss.”
Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists
“Sight changes often happen so gradually that drivers don’t realise their vision has deteriorated. Yet we know that poor eye sight can cause people to react more slowly and compromise safe driving, which can be the difference between recognising a hazard and having a collision with tragic consequences.
“Vision-related accidents could be avoided with simple, evidence-based updates to the current legislation in the UK. This latest research shows that the majority of the public agree that change is needed. That’s why we believe our joint principles are the basis for a fair, consistent system – where a driver’s vision is checked by an eye health professional. This step is common sense, is the direction much of Europe is moving in, and it’s clear the public recognise it as a vital step towards making our roads safer for everyone.”
Dr Peter Hampson, Clinical and Policy Director at the Association of Optometrists
