The number of road users injured in collisions because a car driver or motorbike rider has poor eyesight has soared by 66% during the past five years. “Uncorrected or defective eyesight” was a contributory factor in 165 accidents in 2020, but rocketed to 274 in 2024.
The data on road injury collisions in Britain is reported by the police with officers assigning up to six factors which in their opinion may have contributed to the collision occurring, including where ‘driver or rider had uncorrected or defective eyesight’.
Government Response to Rising Crashes
A Department of Transport spokesperson said: “This increase reflects changes in how police forces record the factors contributing to road collisions, rather than a genuine rise in incidents.
“Road safety is our highest priority, which is why we consulted on mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 as part of our new Road Safety Strategy, and we are carefully reviewing the responses.”
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They added the department continues to work closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council to highlight the importance of regular police roadside eyesight tests for all drivers, ensuring that those drivers who fail to meet the minimum eyesight standards required for driving will have their driving licence revoked by the DVLA.
Legal Responsibilities for Drivers
All drivers also have a legal responsibility to report medical conditions to the DVLA and face fines of up to £1,000 if they fail to inform the agency. They also face prosecution if they are involved in a collision as a result.
