Motorists should have eye tests every ten years, says vision expert

MOTORISTS SHOULD face compulsory sight tests every ten years to stay on the road, leading eye experts have said.

More than a third of optometrists have seen patients in the last month who continue to drive despite being told their vision is below the legal standard, according to the Association of Optometrists (AOP).

Britain has some of the most relaxed vision requirements for drivers in Europe.

There is no mandatory eye exam apart from having to read a number plate on a parked vehicle at the start of the practical driving test. This means a 17-yearold may continue to drive for the rest of their life with no further checks.

Optometrist and AOP board member Dr Julie Anne-Little claimed Britain “falls behind many other countries” due to its reliance on self-reporting and the initial number plate test.

She said: “Because sight changes can be gradual, often people won’t realise that their vision has deteriorated over time.

“This campaign is about reminding drivers that with a visit to their optometrist they can not only make sure they meet the standard but help make our roads safer.”

Seven people were killed and 63 were seriously injured in accidents on Britain’s roads last year in which “uncorrected, defective eyesight” was a contributory factor, Department for Transport data shows.

Motorists must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they have problems with their eyesight, but their licence will continue to be renewed if they do not admit to having difficulties.

Nine out of ten optometrists believe the current rules are insufficient.

A Department for Transport spokeswoman said: “All drivers are required by law to make sure their eyesight is good enough to drive.

“If a driver experiences changes to their eyesight or has a condition which may affect their driving, they must make the DVLA aware of this. If you are unsure whether your eyesight meets the standards, you should notify the DVLA and speak to an optician.”