By GB News (World News) | Created at 2024-10-30 08:54:40 | Updated at 2024-10-30 15:23:55
7 hours ago
Drivers are set to see mandatory eyesight checks launched by police as part of an initiative to make sure visions are in roadworthy condition.
The move announced by the National Police Chiefs’ Council will see officers engaging with drivers on the importance of good eyesight and conducting roadside vision screenings until Sunday November 10.
The checks come as part of a broader effort by the police to reduce serious and fatal road traffic collisions across the county.
Inspector Jason Baxter of Specialist Operations at Lincolnshire Police emphasised the critical nature of the campaign, stating, "Good vision is a prerequisite of safe driving, so it's vital that before you get behind the wheel, you are sure that your eyesight is up to the task."
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Elderly drivers more likely to have fatalities and serious injuries on UK roads
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The campaign includes voluntary roadside vision screening, where drivers are asked to read a number plate from 20 metres in good daylight conditions. Motorists must use any necessary eyesight correction, such as glasses, during the test.
But drivers who fail to meet the required standards could result in severe penalties including harsh fines of up to £1,000, three penalty points, and possible disqualification.
Baxter stressed the importance of driver responsibility, saying, "It's not acceptable to put other road users at risk and part of that is taking responsibility and making sure you are fit to drive in every way."
Under Cassie's Law legislation, drivers who fail the roadside test could have their licence revoked immediately if deemed unsafe by a police officer.
Eye experts have recommend that all motorists have regular sight tests every two years, unless advised otherwise by an optometrist. This helps ensure vision remains roadworthy, as eyesight can decline gradually over time.
The importance of these checks is underscored by recent data from the Department for Transport. It revealed an increase in fatalities and serious injuries among drivers over 70, with the risk accelerating for those over 80.
In response, road safety organisation IAM RoadSmart has proposed a scheme allowing GPs to prescribe mature driver assessments for older motorists. The £8.5million pilot programme aimed to assess up to 100,000 older drivers.
Nicholas Lyes, director of policy and standards at IAM RoadSmart, highlighted the need for such measures, stating, "We're concerned there's nothing formally in place to help older drivers who want to keep their driving in check."
Police to make mandatory eyesight checks
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In addition to the 20 metre number plate test the legal eyesight standards require motorists to have "adequate fields" of vision. The DVLA must also be notified about certain eyesight conditions.
Inspector Si Paull from Warwickshire Police, noted: “Most drivers know that worn or defective tyres on their vehicle can result in a fine and penalty points, but they are less likely to realise that driving with uncorrected defective eyesight is punishable with a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and possible disqualification and also can increase your risk of a collision occurring.
