Clear vision, Safer Roads: A Call to Action for Older Drivers
As your Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m committed to achieving Vision Zero—where every day passes without a road death.
Every life lost on our roads is one too many, and often, they are entirely preventable. That’s why I am raising awareness of one often overlooked but vital area: the importance of older drivers getting regular eye tests.
The number of licence holders aged 70 and over is increasing by around 200,000 every year. Older drivers now make up to 14% of all licence holders but sadly, they account for a quarter of road deaths in Britain.
Poor eyesight, especially when undiagnosed or untreated, can be just as dangerous as drink or drug driving.
Why Vision Matters More with Age
Vision naturally declines as we age. Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and reduced visual field shrink the useful field of view—a known predictor of crash risk, far beyond simply reading a card in front of you.
A recent coroner’s inquest in Lancashire revealed four tragic deaths were caused by drivers whose eyesight was well below the legal standard: they had concealed eye conditions or avoided corrective lenses. Despite legal requirements, their unchecked poor vision remained undetected until it ended precious lives.
The Law On Glasses and Vision
Under Rule 92 of the UK Highway Code, drivers who rely on corrective lenses to read a standard number plate from 20 metres are legally obliged to wear glasses or contact lenses.
Driving without them is an offence, which could invalidate insurance and carry a fine up to £1,000—and risk being charged with dangerous driving if someone has been killed or seriously injured.
Currently the UK licensing system relies on drivers self-declaring vision adequacy at age 70 and at three-year intervals thereafter. There is no compulsory professional eye test, and unseen deterioration too often goes unreported.
Tips for Older Drivers: A Simple Eye Test Could Save a Life
1. Book regular eye tests every two years—or sooner
The NHS recommends sight checks every two years, and more often if your optician advises. Even if you already wear glasses, vision can change.
2. Always wear your prescription when driving
Never drive without your glasses or contact lenses if they’re required—not only for legal compliance, but to ensure safe judgment of speed, distance, and hazards.
3. Monitor vision changes carefully
If glare at night is worse or you struggle reading road signs, don’t wait until your next appointment—book an appointment with your optician.
4. Plan driving around your vision
Many older drivers self-limit by avoiding night driving, motorways, or long distances when their vision worsens.
5. Consider refresher training
Courses such Safety, IAM RoadSmart or Durham County Council Older Driver Training (SAGE) offer tailored refreshers.
6. Keep a spare pair of glasses handy
A backup pair in your car or near the dash ensures you’re never tempted to drive without your correct prescription. It also avoids fines if glasses break mid-journey.
Why It Matters to Everyone
The consequences of impaired vision are stark: even a minor delay in noticing a pedestrian or cyclist can lead to life-altering injuries.
Final Thought
Whether your over 60 or not, if you wear prescription glasses/contacts make a habit of booking eye appointments every two years.
Regular sight testing is one of the simplest yet most effective steps in reducing preventable accidents.
No journey is worth risking a life- or living with the consequences of avoidable harm!
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