A third of people behind the wheel could have poor eyesight


Following a recent survey conducted by nationwide household name Specsavers it has been revealed that one in three drivers had not been for their recommended two yearly checkups at their local optician. Subsequent to recent news that many people are leaving their eyes untested due to the economic climate; the consequences of such actions become shockingly clear.

Of the 3,000 people that were surveyed for this test nationwide, not only were one in three people potentially putting theirs and other people’s lives at risk with the possibility of substandard eyesight; but another 6% of people surveyed haven’t had their eyes tested for the last 11 years. What is perhaps more significantly worrying, is that out of the people who are aware that they should be wearing glasses behind the wheel, a fifth of them admitted that they never bothered to so. Our eyesight is critical when we are driving; as we have to be alert at all times for oncoming dangers and hazards. Substandard eyesight could fail to pick up early warning signs that could prevent an accident. The potential consequences of vision problems whilst driving were shown through Bristol’s example, as it was found the car crash capital of the UK. Out of the car crashes that occur in Bristol nearly 50% of them were thought to be due to poor visual problems. Bad weather was also a contributing factor to 78% and 39% because of lack of concentration. What is most worrying is a high majority of the accidents that have occurred almost appear avoidable with better vision and concentration; highlighting the necessity of regular eye tests.

The survey also asked motorists how many of them would have their two yearly checkups should it lower their insurance, and 97% of people said they would definitely go every two years if this were the case. Discouragingly, this shows the low priority that our eyes are given within our hectic lifestyles; with a little incentive it appears more people would take the care our eyes deserve. Perhaps the new legislation that is to be introduced in 2011 necessitating that motorists have regular eye tests could provide this much needed incentive. However, the news should be taken on board by leading insurance companies as regular eye testing appears to hold the key to nearly 50% of road accidents.

10th December 2009

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