The Importance of Clear Vision on the Road
National Eye Health Week runs from 22 to 28 September 2025, which makes it a handy prompt to talk about something we all rely on, but that rarely sits at the forefront of our minds: our eyesight. We’re consistently arguing the toss around speed limits and smart device uses, but the simple act of being able to see clearly remains the foundation of every safe journey.
The fact is, if your vision isn’t up to scratch, all the speed limits, smart tech and airbags in the world won’t help to make you a safer driver.
The Reality of Poor Vision Among Drivers
It’s widely estimated that more than two million people in the UK are on the roads with vision that falls below the legal standard. A recent series of inquests revealed the very real human cost — a number of fatal collisions involving drivers with seriously impaired sight.
Recently, a senior coroner called the current approach “ineffective”, particularly the outdated number plate test that still exists in modern driving tests. The message delivered was clear: without reform, more avoidable deaths will follow.
The Current Legal Standards for Driver Vision
If you’re struggling to remember the rules around eyesight testing, they sound distinctly outdated. In good daylight you must:
- Read a modern number plate from 20 metres.
- Meet a minimum visual acuity of 0.5 (6/12) with both eyes (or one, in specific medical cases).
Whether you’re spotting a hazard, identifying a vehicle, or admiring personalised number plates, the ability to read them clearly is non-negotiable. Critics argue, however, that relying on self-declaration and a kerbside reading test is no longer effective.
How Declining Vision Feels Behind the Wheel
More often than not, worsening vision isn’t something you’ll immediately notice; it sneaks up on you:
- Astigmatism smears headlights and streetlamps into starbursts.
- Cataracts add halos and glare that make night driving difficult.
- Glaucoma narrows peripheral vision, creating hidden blind spots.
- General eyesight decline reduces definition, much like watching in standard definition instead of 4K.
These are not rare edge cases — they’re common conditions with everyday consequences.
The Problem of Dazzling Headlights
There’s growing frustration among motorists about dazzling headlights. Surveys show:
- An RAC study found four in five drivers say glare is getting worse.
- Government-backed research is now under way.
- The AA found similar concerns, especially with certain LED setups.
Whether due to brightness, poor aim, or contrast with dark roads, the result is the same: eyes working harder and existing vision problems being amplified.
Mandatory Eye Tests: A Debate in Motion
Thankfully, policymakers are beginning to respond. Discussions include:
- Mandatory eye tests for older drivers.
- Calls from the Association of Optometrists and College of Optometrists for:
- Full sight tests at first licence application.
- Vision checks every 10 years for most drivers.
- More frequent checks (every 3 years) for drivers over 70.
Some welcome this step forward, while others raise concerns about fairness.
What You Can Do Now
While debate continues, you can take immediate action:
- Book an eye test every two years, or sooner if something feels off.
- Pay attention to changes such as night glare, hazy headlights, or blurred signs.
- Keep your windscreen and headlights clean.
- Consider anti-reflection coatings if you wear glasses.
- Avoid relying on yellow-tinted “night driving” glasses, as they may reduce visibility.
Making Eye Health Routine
National Eye Health Week is the perfect reminder to treat eye checks like checking tyre pressure or topping up washer fluid. Encourage family and friends to book tests too — forming this habit now can prevent serious issues later.
Conclusion: See Better, Drive Better
In the end, the solution is simple. Clearer vision means clearer judgement, faster reactions, and fewer nasty surprises. Road safety often feels complex, but this fix is refreshingly straightforward:
See better, drive better, and help everyone get home safely.
