Millions of drivers have thrown their support behind mandatory eye tests for older motorists, as the Government considers new rules for over-70s for the first time.
According to polling by YouGov, 88 per cent of drivers agree that compulsory eyesight checks should be introduced for older drivers.
The poll detailed how it equates to around 37 million people out of the 42 million full driving licence holders recorded by the DVLA.
The support follows new proposals announced in the Road Safety Strategy, which looks to create tougher driving requirements for over-70s, including mandatory eyesight tests.
Lilian Greenwood, Minister for Local Transport, said: “I want to support drivers as they become older. I recognise that having a driving licence is a lifeline for many and provides independence and freedom.
“However, we need to ensure older drivers can continue to drive safely as long as they are fit and healthy to do so.
“We need to find the right balance between ensuring that older people can actively participate in society and retain their independence, whilst at the same time maintaining safe driving on the roads.”
At present, drivers of any age can be fined up to £1,000 and slapped with three penalty points if they fail to meet the legal eyesight standard.
More than four out of five drivers were in support of new eyesight changes for older drivers
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GETTYSection 96 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states: “If a person drives a motor vehicle on a road while his eyesight is such that he cannot comply with any requirement as to eyesight prescribed under this Part of this Act for tests of competence to drive, he is guilty of an offence.”
New research from MoneySuperMarket suggested many drivers may be putting themselves at risk by getting behind the wheel with poor eyesight.
A survey of 1,000 motorists found that 26 per cent, the equivalent of nearly 11 million drivers, are overdue for an eye test or have not had one in the past two years.
Even more concerning, one in seven drivers, roughly around 5.5 million people, have never had an eye test at all.
Under the new rules, older drivers will be required to have mandatory eyesight checks
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GETTYAlicia Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, warned drivers that failing to meet eyesight standards can have both legal and financial consequences.
In the UK, drivers must read a post-2001 number plate from 20 metres and have a visual acuity of at least 6/12 (decimal 0.5) on a Snellen chart with both eyes open, using glasses or contact lenses if needed.
She said: “Breaking this rule could lead to a £1,000 fine, as well as three penalty points.
“Not only are there legal ramifications to not wearing glasses or contact lenses behind the wheel, but there are also financial ones too, should you get into an accident, as your car insurance could be invalidated if you do not meet the standards of vision.”
Drivers must be able to read a registration plate from 20 metres away to travel on UK roads | MERSEYSIDE POLICE
Ms Hempsted also stressed that eyesight can deteriorate gradually, meaning drivers may not realise their vision no longer meets the legal standard.
“People’s vision can change over time, sometimes without them realising. That’s why it’s important to have an eye test every two years to make sure you still meet the legal standard for driving safely and confidently,” the expert added.
The consultation on mandatory eyesight checks stated: “Vision is a critical component of safe driving and ensuring that older drivers can meet the minimum standards required for driving directly addresses a key factor in road safety.”