ARE YOU FIT TO DRIVE???

New research commissioned by RSA and undertaken by Brunel University shows that when measured at the legal minimum level of eyesight, drivers struggled to maintain a constant speed, were 62% more likely to stray out of their lanes and could only recognise 75% of road signs: all factors that could contribute towards a serious road accident.

The research also showed that the current UK number plate test is a poor way to measure whether someone’s vision meets the legal minimum standard, as it only tests one aspect of vision and other factors, such as visual field, are ignored.

In order to make our roads safer, RSA is calling for:

• the number plate test to be scrapped;
• all learner drivers to have their vision tested by an optician prior to applying for a provisional driving licence; and
• eye tests to be mandatory every ten years, linked to driving licence renewal.

Research shows that most drivers already support RSA’s calls. Almost all of those surveyed (92%) believed people with poor eyesight are a threat to themselves and other road users, with 77% supporting legislation to increase provisions for eyesight testing when people take a driving test and 75% agreeing that eye tests should be mandatory when renewing a licence.

But the benefits of frequent eye tests aren’t just limited to the road: they would also have much broader health benefits, including the early detection of diabetes, high blood pressure and even brain tumours.

GP and medical journalist medical expert, Dr Mark Porter, said: “The message couldn't be clearer, have your eyes checked regularly. And if you do need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the number plate test then please wear them when you are driving. Failing to do so should, in my opinion, be an offence that is treated with the same gravity as drinking and driving. It is just as stupid, and probably as dangerous.”

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 3rd, 2011 at 5:00 pm and is filed under Fresh News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.