The government has provided an update on demands to bring in fresh vision tests for motorists across the nation. Should the proposal be implemented, all drivers seeking a driving licence renewal at 70 would need to obtain a recent eye examination and include it with their application, according to Express.co.uk.
Optometrists have urged for over-70s to undergo testing following research that revealed a shocking figure - six in 10 of its members have encountered a patient driving unlawfully within the last month. The organisation estimates that one in ten of the more than 30 million UK motorists may possess below-standard vision - suggesting three million could potentially forfeit their licence should the DVSA embrace the legislative amendment proposal, reports Birmingham Live.
In a recent update, Liberal Democrat Vikki Slade submitted a written Parliamentary question on the matter, asking the Secretary of State for Transport: "To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of (a) requiring all drivers to submit a recent eye test result when applying for a driving license renewal and (b) broadening the required eye tests to include an assessment of (i) vision in reduced lighting, (ii) reaction times, and (iii) peripheral vision."
The Association of Optometrists last year urged for legislative changes requiring all drivers to undergo vision assessments when initially applying for a driving licence, during renewal, and every three years for motorists aged over seventy.
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Chief executive Adam Sampson, discussing the survey findings, declared: "This is a stark reminder of why UK roads are not as safe as they should be."
Research involving 910 optometrists, medical professionals who carry out eye examinations and health assessments, revealed that half encounter multiple patients breaking the law.
Vision deterioration occurs gradually, meaning numerous drivers remain unaware their eyesight has worsened. DVLA regulations require drivers to read a number plate from 66 feet (20m) distance.
Motorists must also manage to read a minimum of six rows of letters on the Snellen wall chart. Individuals are obligated to inform the DVLA when experiencing partial or complete sight loss.
Responding to Ms Slade, Simon Lightwood Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Transport emphasised drivers' responsibility to notify the DVLA of unfitness to drive: "All drivers, regardless of age, have a legal responsibility to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they develop a medical condition that may affect their ability to drive.
"The Government is considering the current process of self-declaration and the challenges posed by an ageing population where certain conditions, including vision conditions, may become more prevalent.
"In the meantime, the current renewal at age 70 process remains as is, and drivers must legally declare any vision or medical conditions that may affect their ability to drive. Any options for change will be subject to public consultation."
At present, motorists aged over 70 are only required to self-certify their fitness to drive every three years, without medical approval, though they must renew their licence more frequently than younger age groups.
Rather than compulsory retests, specialists have proposed implementing a straightforward three-yearly "driver MOT" involving a health check concentrating on reaction speed, eyesight and awareness.
This strategy seeks to preserve safety whilst avoiding forcing elderly drivers off the roads. Professor Julie-Anne Little, former chair of the AOP, previously stated: "Sight changes are gradual which means that many drivers are unaware that their vision has deteriorated over time.
"Having poor eyesight has been shown to slow reaction times and the ability to drive safely. It doesn't take much for one mistake to result in a serious collision with catastrophic consequences."
Mr Sampson added: "The number plate test is not an adequate test of vision. The law should be updated to ensure all drivers are required to have their vision checked and this should be done by reliable means."