If you are a motorist then it is important that your eyesight is of a satisfactory standard. If not then it can have severe implications should you make the decision to get behind the wheel of a car and driving off.
It is a requirement that you have to be able to read the number plate of a vehicle manufactured from 1 September 2001 from a distance of 20 metres. A visual acuity of a minimum of 0.5 decimals is also required together with a satisfactory field of vision. You are allowed to wear contact lenses or glasses when such a test is being carried out.
It is worth noting that there are estimated to be in the region of 2,900 people injured or killed following a road traffic accident that can be attributed to a motorist having bad eyesight. We are sure that you will agree this is a huge number and anything that can be done to lower this figure has got to be welcomed.
If a motorist is over 70 years of age then he or she must confirm that their eyesight is satisfactory when they renew their driving license.
Bear in mind that if you are caught driving a vehicle and have inadequate eyesight then it is possible that you may be prosecuted. As a result, you may be disqualified from driving.
Should you be involved in a road traffic accident and have inadequate eyesight then it is possible that your motor insurance company may not be prepared to pay out should you make a claim on your policy.
In any event, surely you would not want to be held responsible for causing an accident whilst at the wheel of a car due to you having poor eyesight. So, why not consider visiting an optician and have your eyes tested to make sure that your eyesight meets the minimum legal requirements.
