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New research has shown that up to 82 per cent of drivers have experienced poor vision due to weather.

Commissioned by lens specialist ZEISS Vision Care into the impact of the clocks going back on motorists it revealed that 61 per cent reported their vision has been impacted by glare from headlights, and 41 per cent struggling to see due to bad light conditions.

More than three quarters of driver (73 per cent) drivers reported feeling concerned about driving in winter - however the survey also found that millions of drivers are not taking effective steps to combat the poor driving conditions, relying instead on rudimentary methods to improve their vision.

For example, 23 per cent of those polled admitted to simply using their hand to shield their eyes from winter sun.

Twenty-eight per cent found they needed glasses for driving as a result of a regular eye test however with eye tests currently not compulsory for motorists, and only half of UK adults undertaking these, millions of drivers are leaving their eyes untested.

Despite current requirements, 81 per cent of those polled believed all learner drivers should have an eye test before getting behind the wheel.

And more than seven out of 10 felt an eye test should be a formal requirement of the driving test, and nearly three quarters (73 per cent) felt drivers over 60 should be subject to an annual eye test.

Professional services associate ZEISS Vision Care UK, Paul Hopkins said:Driving in low light conditions is challenging for your eyes. In low light, the pupils dilate and image contrast is reduced making the task of driving more difficult.

"Also, bright headlights from oncoming vehicles can cause discomfort glare. This is not only uncomfortable, but distracting to the driver, making it more difficult when driving at night time or in bad weather conditions.

"Most drivers will be aware of this effect when a car with bright headlights drives past; your eyes take time to adjust following exposure to this glare.

"When practising as an optometrist, I regularly saw patients who complained of difficulties with their vision when driving. This could often be easily rectified with a new pair of spectacles.

"I recommend that all drivers should see their optometrist for a regular eye test - although not currently a legal requirement for driving, this is the easiest and best way to make sure your vision is as good as possible, particular important for driving in the more challenging winter conditions."

Dispensing Optician at Gloucester Medical Eye Centre, Gloucester, Peter Slepertas said: Our research shows that 76 per cent of drivers feel more concerned about driving in the winter months, whether that be due to bad light, headlight glare, or unpredictable weather.

"There are steps that motorists can take to make them as safe a driver as possible, and consideration for the quality of their vision when taking to the road is one that can improve their confidence and comfort too.

"ZEISS DriveSafe lenses are an everyday lens that have been designed to meet the visual challenges involved with driving.

"The lenses innovative technology optimises vision in low light conditions, anti-glare coatings reduce discomfort from on-coming headlights and help with difficulty switching focus between the road, dashboard and mirrors.

"As a result, 77 per cent of DriveSafe users report feeling safer when driving and over three quarters felt more comfortable driving in all weather conditions.

"Whilst regular eye tests are not a legal requirement for motorists, were calling on UK drivers to consider the impact that winter weather conditions have on their vision behind the wheel, and take this opportunity to ensure their eye sight is up to scratch by booking an appointment with their optician."

To read more about health in Gloucestershire, click here.

See the original post:
More than four-fifths of motorists in South West have poor driving vision due to the weather - Gloucestershire Live

This entry was posted on November 22, 2019 at 5:51 pm and is filed under Eye Sight & Vision. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed. |