Experts are sounding the alarm that current eyesight regulations for drivers fall short, with urgent calls for new checks to be introduced for those over 70. They contend that the rules governing the vision of older drivers are “flawed” due to the absence of compulsory vision tests on UK roads.
Adam Sampson, chief executive of the Association of Optometrists (AOP), has voiced concerns that under the existing system, the eyesight of elderly drivers can “remain unchecked”, which could pose a danger on the roads. At present, senior drivers are not mandated to undergo an eyesight test when renewing their driving licence at 70.
Yet, as vision typically declines with age, subtle changes may escape the notice of drivers, potentially leaving many behind the wheel with impaired sight and posing a considerable safety hazard. Adam remarked: “In the UK, the number plate test is not an adequate test of vision.”
He also noted: “It is carried out only once with a driving instructor, not a trained eye health professional,” as reported by the Express.Moreover, he highlighted: “A driver’s vision can then remain unchecked for the rest of their life.”
He wrapped up his comments by stating: “This approach is flawed and is out of step with many other countries who use a full sight test as the means to accurately ensure motorists have satisfactory vision to drive safely.”
Alarming statistics have come to light, showing that a quarter of UK drivers confess they’re concerned about acquaintances driving with substandard eyesight, with almost one in three having had close calls on the road. In the wake of these figures, the Association of Optometrists (AOP) is pressuring the Department for Transport for an urgent overhaul of the antiquated number plate test.
Presently, the only requirement for drivers is to read a number plate from 20 metres away at the commencement of their driving career. But experts are advocating for mandatory eye examinations during licence renewal, which happens every decade or every three years for those over 70.
Commenting on the situation, Adam said: “What is deeply worrying is that we have a decade’s worth of evidence to highlight the risks, and the growing concern of eye experts. Change is never easy. There was huge opposition to drink-driving laws and the mandatory use of seatbelts – but these interventions save lives.”
He also noted: “Our polling shows the majority of the public support the idea of mandatory regular sight tests for all drivers.” As people age, eyesight naturally degrades, with cataracts being a significant condition to watch for. The NHS website advises: “Over time these patches usually become bigger causing blurry, misty vision and eventually blindness.”
“When we’re young, our lenses are usually like clear glass, allowing us to see through them. As we get older, they start to become frosted, like bathroom glass, and begin to limit our vision.”
The NHS has stated that cataracts typically develop in both eyes, although not necessarily at the same time or to the same degree. They are more prevalent among the elderly and can interfere with daily activities such as driving. Cataracts can also affect infants and young children. If colours appear faded, it’s recommended to see an optician.
Furthermore, the NHS has highlighted another condition that can impact vision as people age – age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This common condition affects the central part of your vision and typically first impacts individuals in their 50s and 60s.
“The exact cause is unknown. It’s been linked to smoking, high blood pressure, being overweight and having a family history of AMD,” adds the NHS.
The NHS says see an optician if:
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colours look faded
- you find it harder to see in low light
- your eyesight is blurred or misty
- you find lights too bright or glaring