New data shows that nearly 11 million (26%) UK drivers are currently overdue an eye test or haven't had one in the past two years, according to a survey by MoneySuperMarket. The research comes as proposals for mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 are considered under Andy Burnham's new road safety strategy.
Support for Mandatory Tests
According to YouGov, 37 million UK drivers (88%) agree that mandatory eye tests for older drivers should be introduced. The current law (Section 96 of the Road Traffic Act 1988) states: “If a person drives a motor vehicle on a road while his eyesight is such that he cannot comply with any requirement as to eyesight prescribed under this Part of this Act for the purposes of tests of competence to drive, he is guilty of an offence.”
The survey also found that one in seven (5.5 million) drivers have never had an eye test appointment.
Risks of Driving Without Glasses
7.6 million (nearly one-in-five) UK drivers admitted having previously driven without contact lenses or glasses they need, despite 67% (28.2 million) saying they were aware of possible consequences for their insurance cover.
Drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away (around five parked cars) to drive legally and should have an eye test every two years to meet vision requirements.
Alicia Hempstead, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket said: “Section 96 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 says that if a driver has a visual impairment, they must not get behind the wheel without the proper means to see clearly.
“Drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away, the equivalent of around five parked cars. Breaking this rule could lead to a £1,000 fine, as well as three penalty points.
“Not only are there legal ramifications to not wearing glasses or contact lenses behind the wheel, but there are also financial ones too should you get into an accident, as your car insurance could be invalidated if you do not meet the standards of vision.
“People’s vision can change over time, sometimes without them realising. That’s why it’s important to have an eye test every two years to make sure you still meet the legal standard for driving safely and confidently.”
