Motorists in the UK are being reminded of the legal requirement to meet the "standard of vision for driving," as law enforcement ramps up roadside eyesight tests to improve road safety. Drivers who fail to meet the standards could face fines of up to £1,000 (RM5,500) or even a driving ban.
The vision standard requires drivers to read a number plate from a distance of 20 meters. Those who need glasses or contact lenses to achieve this must wear them while driving or risk severe penalties.
According to data from the Association of Optometrists (AOP), over 2,000 accidents in the UK have been attributed to poor driver vision, resulting in nearly 3,000 casualties.
“These roadside checks are aimed at ensuring that all drivers are fit to be on the road,” said Ian Wilson, Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk. “Regular eye tests are essential to detect vision loss early and ensure drivers have the correct prescription for glasses or contact lenses.”
The UK stands out as one of the few European countries that does not require additional vision tests after drivers obtain their licenses. The current system relies on a one-time number plate test conducted during the driving test.
Adam Sampson, chief executive of the AOP, highlighted concerns about the outdated regulations, stating, “It’s worrying that a 17-year-old who passes a vision test at their driving exam might never be required to take another test for the rest of their life.”
The AOP has proposed mandatory eye tests every two years, as well as when drivers renew their licenses every 10 years. Drivers aged 70 and above are already required to renew their licenses every three years, but no mandatory vision testing accompanies the process.
While the UK grapples with outdated laws, Malaysia similarly does not mandate eye tests for license renewal, raising questions about road safety in other parts of the world.
As the UK takes steps to address the issue with stricter roadside tests and enforcement, the importance of maintaining good eye health for driving continues to be a global conversation.
Source: Oxford Mail