A lot of people have concerns and misconceptions regarding the safe (and legal) levels of vision needed to drive.

It’s understandable why as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) rules run to several pages and use some very specific technical terms. There is not one simple test that can be applied to answer the question ‘is my eyesight good enough to drive?’ 

 

Hereford Times: The Wye Clinic in Hereford have a team of dedicated consultants and surgeons who can provide tailored services based on your needs.The Wye Clinic in Hereford have a team of dedicated consultants and surgeons who can provide tailored services based on your needs. (Image: The Wye Clinic Hereford)

There is usually a big motivation for people to want to continue to drive, even if their eyesight is deteriorating. Identifying the time when it is no longer safe or legal to do so can be very difficult, particularly when the condition that is affecting one’s sight is slowly progressive (such as cataracts).  

Hereford Times: If your eyesight is deteriorating, having regular eye tests and exploring potential surgeries can ensure that you keep driving safely.If your eyesight is deteriorating, having regular eye tests and exploring potential surgeries can ensure that you keep driving safely. (Image: Getty Images)

One of the tests drivers of cars (HGV drivers have different tests) need to be able to pass is: reading a standard (modern) number plate at 20m in good daylight. However, the DVLA go on to say: ‘glare may counter an ability to pass the number plate test of the minimum requirements, even when cataracts allow apparently appropriate acuities.’ So, glare affecting the vision may render someone unfit to drive even if they can pass the standard number plate test. It is all very difficult to navigate and therefore important to remain on the side of caution. Seek help before driving with unsafe/illegal levels of vision. 

The DVLA do not have an ‘only drive the roads you know’ license. All drivers must be capable of driving on a road whether familiar or not. Many people believe that driving without sufficiently good eyesight causes their insurance to be invalid. While this is true, it is also a criminal offence.  

Hereford Times: Most common causes of reduced vision can be effectively treated.Most common causes of reduced vision can be effectively treated. (Image: Getty Images)

Many common causes of reduced vision can be effectively treated, and if surgery is going to be required, then delay will certainly not improve the outcome. In the case of cataract treatment is in the form of a short operation, recovery from which is usually incredibly fast. The best results are achieved with an individualised approach – always ask to meet your surgeon in person before the day of surgery.  

To find out more about eye surgery or alternative options, visit thewyeclinic.com or call 01432 802 600.