It’s your responsibility to make sure the car you drive is road worthy, just as it is your responsibility to make sure your eyesight is good enough to enable you to drive comfortably and safely.
Studies suggest that 1 in 5 middle age drivers are behind the wheel knowing that your eyesight is not as good as it should be, which would mean you are breaking the law.
The law is very clear. A driver of a car or motorbike must be able to read in good daylight – with glasses or contact lenses if they wear them – a number plate with symbols 97.4mm (three inches) high from a distance of 20 metres.
If they are unable to do this, their insurance may be invalidated. Driving with uncorrected defective vision is an offence punishable with a heavy fine, penalty licence points and possible driving disqualification.
Reading a number plate at the distance of 20m is in the initial driving test, but then it is not again tested until you reach 70 years old. During this time your eyesight can change, it is therefore essential especially once you reach your 30s to have regular eye tests (every two years) whether you wear glasses or not. If you notice any change in your eyesight outwith this period you should make an appointment at your local Opticians to ensure your eyes are fit to drive.
Eye tips for drivers to keep everyone safely on the road:
- Always wear an up-to-date pair of glasses or contact lenses while driving, if they are needed.
- Keep a spare pair of glasses in your vehicle. In France and some other European countries drivers who wear glasses must, by law, carry a spare pair in the car.
- Don’t use tinted lenses for night driving.
- If possible, have an anti-reflection coat on your glasses.
- Keep your car windscreen clean, inside and out.