A quarter of UK drivers risk their lives, and the lives of others, on UK roads every day. A recent survey by Boots Opticians reveals that 25 per cent of drivers have taken to the wheel whilst knowing they are unable to see properly. The findings were supported by practical research also carried out on behalf of Boots Opticians, which tested the eyesight of drivers at a busy service station[2]. The research confirmed that 10 per cent did not pass the minimum level of eyesight required for driving, meaning a potential three million people are currently on Britain’s roads without being able to see clearly.
Almost all (92 per cent) of respondents agreed that regular eye tests are a necessary precaution to ensure that eyesight remains at a safe level for driving, and 86 per cent said that they were concerned about the eyesight of fellow drivers on the road. However, nearly a quarter (24 per cent) of drivers admitted to not having had their eyes tested since their driving examination, and did not know whether their eyesight is still at the required level, showing an apathy towards taking action.
The roads are set to be even more perilous for drivers during the winter months, with over half (55 per cent) saying the adverse weather conditions make it more difficult to see clearly whilst driving. With the impending clock change on 26th October, drivers will have to be even more careful as they face the additional problems posed to vision by increased darkness.
In Spain and Switzerland, citizens who need spectacles for driving are legally required to keep a spare pair of glasses in their car at all times. Almost two thirds of those questioned (69%) think this should also be the case in the UK. Boots Optician David Cartwright comments "We are shocked at the results of this research, which show a blatant disregard for road safety. Whilst changing the law on this matter will take some time, I would implore people to make sure they are driving with the best vision possible by having regular eye tests, and also for everyone who wears glasses for driving to act upon this news immediately by always keeping a spare pair in their car."
Nigel Bartram, Head of Motor Underwriting Strategy at Norwich Union adds: "Ten drivers die on UK roads every single day. Car accidents can be caused by a whole host of factors, including poor driving conditions, people using their mobile phones whilst driving, poor concentration or human error. Surprisingly many drivers don't realise that poor eyesight can also be a contributing factor, as accidents are far more likely if drivers don't have a clear view of the road ahead, they misjudge breaking distances or they cannot see potential hazards on the road. We do therefore encourage all our customers to have regular eye tests to ensure their eyesight is at a safe level for driving, and fully support a call to action for all who need glasses to keep a spare pair in their car."