Wheeler Dealers host Mike Brewer has backed eyesight tests for older motorists, agreeing that over-70s should be checked. The host of the classic car restoration series explained that testing older drivers’ vision was “really important” as he backed the introduction of new rules.
Last month, it emerged that compulsory eye test rules were likely to be set out in the Government’s latest road safety strategy set to be published this Autumn. The checks would see eye tests become compulsory for over-70s every time they renew their driving licence. This is likely to see older drivers forced to undergo eye assessments every three years when they apply for a new photocard.
The news has received a mixed response on social media with many older drivers appearing to be frustrated that they were being targeted. But, speaking to Express.co.uk, Mike said: “I don’t know why people get angry, I’m all for it.
“I think it’s really important, I’ve been in cars with people over 60 and their eyesight’s not good enough and I’ve been terrified sitting in the passenger seat.
“The inconvenience that they are moaning about is they have to go and get a free eye test, which is ridiculous. If you’ve got bad eyes, you shouldn’t be driving. I’d rather be safer on the roads and have people safer around me on the roads than not.”
Motorists must have a vision of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) on the Snellen scale to remain safe behind the wheel.
This is usually illustrated by checking if road users can read a number plate from around 20 metres or 5 car lengths. However, road users are only required to self-certify their medical condition and eyesight and do not face formal tests later in life.
Eyesight can often be hard to diagnose, with vision deteriorating slowly over time, making it almost impossible for many to notice. The Older Drivers Forum has previously claimed that road users should get their eyes checked around every two years.
However, some individuals should go for more tests if their optician advises extra assessments. The news was welcomed by many experts, including Adam Sampson, Chief Executive of the Association of Optometrists (AOP).
Adam said: “The introduction of compulsory sight tests for motorists over 70, alongside wider changes, signals a decisive break from complacency in the face of preventable tragedies.
“For too long, the UK has relied on a self-reporting model for visual standards – one of the laxest regimes in Europe – despite mounting evidence that it puts lives at risk.”