Shining a light on road safety and vision
Shining a light on road safety and vision
Last time you were driving in low light conditions, did you think that those dazzling headlights zapping through your windscreen and almost blinding you suggested a problem with your eyesight? If you did, you are not alone. According to a recent survey by the RAC, nine out of ten UK drivers report that oncoming headlights are too bright.This has even resulted in a call for government action*
Many modern cars are fitted with LED headlights rather than the softer traditional halogen bulbs we are usually used to. Not only do these LED headlights appear brighter, but they can also cause headaches, blurred vision and eye discomfort for motorists. This could increase the possibility of having an accident.
A guiding light
Recently, the government has been urged to investigate the use of LED chips in headlights. In the meantime, we want to encourage drivers to wear the correct frames and prescription lenses whilst driving to keep safe.
Dazzling LED headlights combined with night driving and bad weather will only cause more issues if you do not have regular eye examinations.
An eye test must be done every two years to check that your vision meets the necessary standards for driving. Whilst you may have passed the initial test of reading a number plate on a vehicle 20 metres away (this is about the distance of a double-decker bus), regular eye examinations will also check other aspects of vision which are essential for safe driving. These include tests on how quickly you can spot a hazard, how wide your field of vision is and if there are any early signs of health conditions that might make it difficult to drive.
The best frame styles for driving are slightly larger eye sizes that provide a wide field of view. Consider thinner rims (or rimless frames) and thin sides with a high joint, so that your vision is not occluded at the sides. Make sure you are properly measured for your frames so that they do not slip forward, causing a distraction.
Vision changes that affect driving
Cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration are some of the most common eye conditions that impair driving. Getting behind the wheel without the correct diagnosis or forgetting to inform the DVLA could cost you your licence and may result in prosecution.
Cataracts are treatable with eye surgery, and if caught in time glaucoma and macular degeneration can be managed with medicines, eye drops and supplements. Spotting the signs of eye conditions early can slow down the progression. Contact one of our practices to book an appointment if you are suffering from loss or blurred vision, headaches or the inability to focus on objects whilst driving.
Enhance your vision
We recommend having your spectacle lenses supplied with an anti-glare coating. Lights from oncoming traffic, buildings and street lights can all affect our ability to drive safely. These coatings reduce the effect of glare and can help you to feel safer and more comfortable when behind the wheel. Many lens suppliers now offer specialist driving coatings, which are tailored for managing the particular type of glare experienced when driving in low light, or at night.These coatings can also help to filter out blue light (the new LED headlights emit blue light),protecting the eyes from straining and discomfort.
Polarised lenses are a good option for daytime driving as they are 100% UV-protected and help reduce the light reflection from horizontal surfaces like roads, water and snow. If you are looking for a non polarised, tinted lens for day time driving, we would recommend a grey, brown or amber shade. Other colours will be less effective and could affect traffic signal recognition.
Finally, we would advise that you keep your car windscreen and headlights clean and smear free. You will be amazed how much difference it makes!
If you would like to speak to one of our friendly team about your vision, please contact us today or pop into one of our practices.
*https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/motoring-news/rac-calls-for-government-action-on-headlight-glare/