RED Driver Training launches smartphone vision screening for learner drivers

The AOP has highlighted underlying flaws in the current approach to vision standards for driving following the launch of smartphone vision screening for learner drivers.

UK driving education provider, RED Driver Training, has deployed smartphone vision screening for learner drivers in partnership with Danish company, OptikosPrime.

OptikosPrime’s VisionCheck software has been embedded within the Learn to Drive with RED app. Learner drivers who are flagged as potentially having a refractive issue through the software are encouraged to book an eye examination with an optometrist before booking their practical driving test.

OptikosPrime chief executive officer, Anders Kofod-Petersen, highlighted that people often do not realise when their vision has slipped.

“Catching vision changes before a student earns their full licence is a practical, scalable way software can save lives,” he said.

RED delivers 1.3 million hours of driver training annually through a network of more than 1700 instructors.

RED Driver Training chief executive officer, Seb Goldin, emphasised that being able to see clearly is the “absolute bedrock of safe driving.”

He noted that the technology would be a way to reinforce safety before drivers had their first in-vehicle lesson.

“Integrating OptikosPrime’s technology into our Learn to Drive with RED app gives our students an effortless way to check their vision early. If correction is needed, they find out in advance, consult an optical professional, and gain the confidence to drive safely,” he said.

Responding to the deployment, AOP clinical and policy director, Dr Peter Hampson, highlighted that it is important that responsibility for ensuring drivers meet vision standards for driving should not fall to driving instructors.

“While we welcome innovations that can help raise awareness of the importance of vision to safe driving, they should complement, not compensate for, shortcomings in the current system in the UK,” he emphasised.

Hampson observed that shortcomings in the current standards can be addressed through a more robust, consistent and evidence-led approach to safeguards – ensuring that all drivers meet the legal eyesight standards, and all road users are better protected.

“That is why we are calling for the Government to incorporate routine eyesight testing by optometrists into driver licensing requirements and act on public support and clinical evidence to strengthen road safety measures,” he said.

More information about the AOP’s Don’t swerve a sight test campaign can be found online.