Open letter calls for review to vision standards for drivers

The AOP and The College of Optometrists have issued an open letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, calling for reform of the vision standards for drivers.

The professional bodies are calling for mandatory vision checks taking place at first licence application, and at every renewal, which would be every 10 years for most drivers, and every three years for those over 70.

The letter emphasises the organisations’ belief that “vision-related accidents are preventable with simple, evidence-based legislative changes.”

The move follows an inquest held earlier this year into the deaths of four people killed by drivers with failing eyesight.

HM senior coroner for Lancashire, Dr James Adeley sent the Transport Secretary a Prevention of Future Death Report, outlining concerns that the system by which motorists self-report visual issues is “ineffective and unsafe.”

Both the AOP and The College of Optometrists gave expert evidence at the inquest.

It has been reported that, in comments made to the Transport Committee about the Coroner’s conclusions, the Transport Secretary suggested that sight test requirements for older drivers is something she is open to considering.

The comments made by the Transport Secretary have been welcomed by the AOP and The College of Optometrists.

The joint letter signed by both professional bodies outlined that the UK’s model is “out of step with best practice internationally,” making it one of five countries in Europe that uses the licence plate test, and one of three to rely on self-reporting.

The document included research from the AOP, which also formed part of the inquest evidence, that found over half of AOP members polled had encountered a patient who wanted to continue to drive regardless of poor vision, while a survey of 2000 UK adults found 29% would continue to drive despite knowing their vision is below the legal standard.

The letter emphasises: “With more than 7,000 optometry practices nationwide, optometrists are well-placed to support the delivery of these checks swiftly and effectively.”

“Lives can and must be saved by ensuring no driver with unsafe vision remains on the road unchecked,” the letter states.

The joint letter can be read in full here.

Read more about the AOP’s Don’t swerve a sight test campaign, with more information about the calls for change, and ways to get involved, online.

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