Eyesight tests not rigorous enough

The Driving Instructors' Association (DIA) says that recent research shows that 13 million UK motorists are breaking the law and putting themselves and others at risk because of poor vision.

Despite tough laws on eyesight for motorists in other EU countries, the UK's driving eyesight requirements are simple. As long as you can read an old style number plate from 20.5 metres, and a new style number plate from 20 metres, you are allowed to drive on the roads.

The DIA would like to see tougher tests - for peripheral and depth vision - every 10 years.

Eddie Barnaville chief executive of the DIA said: "As far as a UK driving licence is concerned, a motorist's eyesight remains the same until the age of 70. We would like to see every driving licence applicant produce an eyesight report, following an eyesight test conducted by a qualified optometrist, before any part of a UK driving test can be conducted."

For further information contact Vikki Carley on 020 8665 8024 or email: newsdesk@driving.org

28.08.06 - Eyesight checks about safety, police say