04-12-2007 Back to news index
The Association of Optometrists of Ireland is calling for compulsory eye testing for drivers at regular intervals throughout their driving career.
“The current mix of changeable weather and the short days of the year puts added stress on the eyes while driving – so if a driver’s sight is defective, this poses a significant risk to him or her, to other drivers and to pedestrians,” Mr. Peter Coleman, Chief Executive of the Association, commented.
Mr. Coleman added: “It’s against the law in
“However, a driver may be only 17 or 18 years of age when undergoing the eye examination for the provisional licence. This individual’s eyesight can change very quickly and in only a few years they may no longer meet the vision requirements to drive with uncorrected vision.”
Certain vision problems will only present themselves when the driver is tired or has had even one alcoholic drink, Mr. Coleman continued. The driver may feel they have perfect eyesight, but these types of defects can only be picked up by proper eye examinations carried out by a qualified optometrist.
Regular eye examinations are also important for drivers in the older age groups. Many changes that occur in the eye which are age related can compromise an individual’s ability to drive. Just as in the younger age group, prescription changes can also occur quite rapidly. Other driving conditions such as glare are also more likely to adversely affect an older driver.
“Poor vision compromises road safety,” Mr. Coleman said, “and for this reason, our Association is calling for a change to the current legislation to introduce compulsory eye sight testing for drivers at regular intervals throughout their driving career.”