Groundbreaking Survey Highlights Urgent Need for Vision Testing Among UK Motorists
A landmark study has revealed a staggering 720,000 motorists are driving on Britain’s roads with defective eyesight, posing significant road safety risks. The study, conducted by police forces across England and Wales, involved number plate tests on 3,010 drivers, uncovering that 1.7% of motorists failed the vision test. This equates to over 720,000 drivers potentially having impaired vision while behind the wheel.
- 1.7% of tested drivers failed the roadside vision screening, meaning 720,642 motorists may be driving with sub-standard eyesight.
- A concerning 40% of motorists had not had an eye test in over two years, the recommended interval.
- Among those who failed the vision test, half were not wearing their prescribed corrective lenses.
- The test failure rate was highest among older drivers, with 10.2% of those aged 81 to 90 failing.
Key Findings:
This eye-opening data was published in a report from the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), the University of Warwick, the Older Drivers Forum, and Eye Health UK. The findings have sparked a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye exams and ensuring that drivers meet the legal eyesight standards required to stay safe on the roads.
Road Safety at Risk
The report highlights that poor eyesight is a leading factor in accidents, with approximately 3,000 serious injuries and six fatalities annually caused by drivers with uncorrected or defective vision. Optometrist David Cartwright, Chair of Eye Health UK, emphasised the crucial role of good vision in driving safety: “90% of information needed for driving is visual. Even a minor reduction in vision can affect reaction times, hazard recognition, and driving in low light conditions.”
A Growing Concern
The study also revealed some troubling statistics:
- 3.2% of those stopped by police were issued warnings or had their licences revoked, with 1.4% of drivers losing their licences immediately.
- Older drivers were more likely to fail the test, with those aged 81 to 90 having the highest failure rate of 10.2%.
- Female drivers had a slightly higher failure rate than males, with 1.9% of women failing compared to 1.5% of men.
Call to Action for Safer Roads
The findings highlight a growing need for improved public awareness regarding eyesight and driving. Dr Carol Hawley from Warwick Medical School explained, “Many drivers are unaware that their sight has deteriorated below legal standards, which can jeopardise road safety. Regular eye tests are crucial not only for driving but for detecting early signs of medical conditions.”
Rob Heard, founder of the Older Drivers Forum, commented on the need for routine eye checks: “Sight deterioration can be gradual, and many drivers may not realise their vision has fallen below the legal limit. Regular eye tests help ensure drivers remain roadworthy and can spot potential health issues early.”
A Vision for Safer Driving
To stay safe on the roads, motorists are encouraged to:
- Have regular eye tests every two years or sooner if vision changes are noticed.
- Wear prescribed corrective lenses while driving.
- Be proactive about their vision health and seek professional advice if in doubt.
Final Thought from the NPCC
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, NPCC Lead for Roads Policing, stressed the importance of personal responsibility: “Ensuring your eyesight meets driving standards is essential for road safety. If you have any doubts about your sight, make an appointment with an optician. It’s the most important step you can take to protect yourself and others.”
