Drivers aged 60 and over are being urged to check their eyesight ahead of the clocks going back on October 25, when night driving becomes more frequent and potentially more hazardous.
Marios Antoniades, Dispensing Optician and Director of Quality Eyes, warned that the clock change could be a critical moment for elderly road users, who may find driving after dark “more difficult” than in previous years — a sign that their vision may have deteriorated.
Gradual Vision Changes
Vision changes are so gradual that drivers barely notice them, but the return to more night-time driving can heighten the issue. Without perfect vision, road users could struggle in low visibility, with headlight dazzle also playing a role. Sunset is expected as early as 5.30pm after the clocks change.
Speaking exclusively to The Express, Marios said: “Your eyesight can change gradually, so you may not realise that your prescription is no longer giving you the clearest possible vision. And it’s when the clocks change that most people realise that driving after dark feels more difficult than it used to.”
Free Eye Tests for Over-60s
Marios added that motorists with concerns about their eyes should book an eye test sooner rather than later. Drivers over 60 can book an eye exam at no cost, giving road users no excuse to have their vision checked.
He stressed that with the right glasses or contact lenses, night driving can become much easier, providing a significant safety boost.
Why Night Driving Is Riskier With Age
The Older Drivers Forum previously explained why driving in the dark was so risky for elderly road users. They said: “Driving at night can be tricky and often more so as we get older. Your eyesight changes in later life, and this may make it harder to see road signs and other road users, especially in low light.
“Did you know that between the ages of 15 and 65, the recovery time from glare increases from 2 to 9 seconds? This may be why, as we get older, we don’t like to drive at night.
“Older drivers frequently have difficulty seeing in poor light conditions as our eyes become less able to react quickly to changes in light. As we get older, we also start to have difficulty with colours and contrasts in poor light.”
The warning follows a separate reminder to UK driving licence holders about new October rules, underscoring the importance of staying informed on driving regulations as the season changes.
