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Eye testing time for motorists

UK motorists are being urged to make sure their eyesight passes the test!

Motorists should always wear glasses or contact lenses while driving if they need them.

And, says car breakdown services Autonational Rescue, driving with uncorrected defective vision is an offence which carries a heavy fine, penalty points and possible disqualification.

“Literally millions of drivers are putting lives at risk - their own and others - because of their poor eyesight,” says marketing manager Ronan Hart.

Recent research has found that drivers in their 20s especially were least likely to have had an eye test in the last two years.

• While last year it was reported that up to a third of all drivers in the UK - 13 million motorists - could be breaking the law and putting lives in danger because of poor eyesight.

The Royal National Institute for the Blind report showed that a third of all drivers had not had their eyes tested over the previous two year period as they recommend.

Ronan Hart added: “Nothing much appears to be changing now.

“But every driver should give their eyes a regular MOT. An eye test is about preventing your sight from getting worse - not just about whether you need to wear glasses or not.

"It just takes a 20 minute check with a professional eye specialist every two years - which may only mean a stronger pair of glasses or contact lenses - and then everyone is a little safer on the roads."

• Meanwhile, an Autonational Rescue survey found that 58% of motorists across the UK strongly believe that drivers over 65 should have compulsory eyesight tests.

Some experts believe that, very often, drivers over 65 cannot register street signs or see road obstacles quickly enough, particularly at night.

After several high profile deaths caused on Britain’s roads by drivers with poor vision, Autonational says it’s time for a change of mindset.

The survey was carried out nationwide by RSGB Omnibus.

Ends

For more information about Autonational Rescue, the car breakdown service with the no claims bonus, call 07000 999 911

Issued by CPR Works
Tel: 01902 680068
Contact: Jenny Carr/Roger Eversley
E-mail:jenny@cpr.co.uk
Web: www.cpr.co.uk

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