Millions of motorists are driving without wearing glasses required by the law

(PRWEB UK) 30 October 2014

A survey by OnePoll was commissioned by Eye Clinic Focus to discover the public's attitude to wearing corrective lenses whilst driving. They asked 1,000 glasses wearers whether they wore corrective lenses- and if not their reasons. Shockingly one in eight motorists who should wear glasses while behind the wheel admitted to driving without them.

Those under the age of 44 were 15 times more likely to leave their glasses at home than the over-55's category. Of those 43 per cent admitted not wearing their glasses was down to vanity and not liking the way they look. Other reasons given were that they regularly forgot their glasses before getting in the car and it being too much hassle.

Leading UK law firm Accident Advice Helpline said "Drivers are putting both their own lives and the lives of other road users in danger by driving without their glasses. If you don't have optimum vision you may miss hazards that someone with good sight would not".

Drivers who are caught not wearing their glasses could be subject to hefty fines or even losing their licence especially if their driving results in an accident. If you're involved in a serious accident which is attended by the police, one of the first things they will do is check your vision; so if you need glasses but aren't wearing them you'll be caught out. If the accident causes a fatality then you could face a charge of causing death by dangerous driving – which carries a prison sentence – all for not wearing your glasses.

Whilst there is no requirement from your insurance company to inform them if you need glasses when taking out cover, Graeme Trudgill, executive director of the British Insurance Brokers' Association, said "There is no specific wording in the motor policy saying you must wear glasses if you need them, but at the same time drivers have an obligation to take reasonable care to safeguard against damage to their vehicle. Not wearing glasses could be deemed as not taking reasonable care, so there's potential for a problem."

Accident Advice Helpline said "Road signs, safety announcements and other material are regularly displayed by road sides throughout most drives so even if you only need glasses for reading then it's important to wear them. Don't take the risk of driving without them."

If you've been injured in a road accident that wasn't your fault then you could claim compensation for your injuries. Accident Advice Helpline have been helping people with their personal injury claims for fourteen years and have the experience and expertise to help you every step of the way. Speak to one of our specially trained advisors by calling 0800 689 7221 or filling in the form on our homepage.

You can view the original press release through Accident Advice Helpline here.

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