Brits are refusing to wear their glasses while driving – and they’re risking a hefty fine and three points if caught
BRITISH motorists are risking a hefty fine and penalty points for refusing to wear their glasses while driving.
Around one in eight drivers stubbornly ditch their glasses despite being required to wear them while behind the wheel, according to a new survey.
Earlier this month, certain police forces announced plans to test the eyesight of every motorist they stop in a bid to clamp down on accidents stemming from poor vision.
But now one leading UK eye specialist has called for better education about the dangers of driving with uncorrected vision after his survey revealed an "arrogant" refusal to stick to the rules.
The poll, commissioned by laser eye surgeon David Allamby, found one in eight drivers who need glasses admit not always wearing them behind the wheel.
Even more concerning was the fact that 43 per cent of those who ditch their specs did so because they feel they "don't need them".
Other drivers said wearing glasses "was a hassle", while just under a quarter said they "like to look good while driving", so didn't want to wear prescription lenses.
Motorists who refuse to wear glasses despite being required to on their licence face being charged with "driving with uncorrected defective eyesight".
The offence carries three penalty points and a fine based on a percentage of your income - and it could even invalidate your insurance if you are in an accident.
Not wearing your glasses could also see you charged with dangerous driving, which carries an unlimited fine, a road ban and even a prison sentence in extreme cases.
Every driver is required to meet the minimum standards of vision for driving, which includes being able to read a number plate from 20 metres away,
Motorists are allowed to use glasses or contact lenses if necessary to meet these standards, but they are then legally required to use the same aids at all times while driving.
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David Allamby medical director of London’s Focus Clinic, said: “The law is black and white - you must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive if you need them to meet the ‘standards of vision for driving’.
“There appears to be an overly confident approach, where motorists say, ‘Well, my optician says I need glasses to drive but I think I’m a perfectly capable driver without them.’
“Statistically, only half of all drivers are better than average. And it has been proved time and time again in tragic cases of road traffic accidents involving motorists with impaired vision.
“There needs to be a sea change in terms of attitude if the issues are going to be addressed properly.”
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Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research said: “Nobody is issued with glasses because they don’t ‘need’ them.
"Choosing not to wear them is selfish and dangerous, and you are much more likely to be caught now that the police are piloting roadside eyesight testing.
"Glasses and contact lenses are widely available these days on every high street and even in your local supermarket, so there is no excuse for not getting your eyesight checked.
"Good driving starts with observation, and sharp vision is essential to give you the information you need to avoid risky situations on the road.
“In a serious case, deliberately driving without glasses that were necessary could be construed as dangerous driving, which could generate tough penalties and potentially more serious charges."