Is Your Vision Roadworthy? Keeping Hertfordshire’s Roads Safe with Herts Ability
Is Your Vision Roadworthy? Keeping Hertfordshire’s Roads Safe with Herts Ability
As the clocks go back and the nights draw in, road safety becomes more important than ever - and it starts with clear vision. In 2024 alone, thirteen people lost their lives in incidents involving drivers with defective eyesight. That’s thirteen lives too many.
At Herts Ability, we’re proud to support the #IsYourVisionRoadworthy? campaign that runs until Sunday 9th November 2025, reminding all motorists of their legal responsibility to ensure their eyesight meets minimum standards every time they get behind the wheel.
Why Vision Matters Behind the Wheel
Did you know that 90% of the information a driver uses is visual? From spotting hazards to reading signs and judging distances, good eyesight is essential for safe driving.
If your vision isn’t up to standard, you’re not only putting yourself at risk - you’re endangering every road user around you. Poor vision can cause slower reaction times, missed hazards, and difficulty driving at night.
That’s why all drivers are legally required to:
- Read a car number plate (made after 1 September 2001) from 20 metres away.
- Have a visual acuity of at least 6/12 on the Snellen scale (with glasses or contact lenses if needed).
- Have adequate fields of vision.
If your eyesight falls below these standards, you could face a £1,000 fine, three points on your licence, and even disqualification. Under Cassie’s Law, the police can revoke your licence on the spot if you fail a roadside eyesight test.
Regular Eye Tests: A Simple Step to Stay Safe
Just as your car needs an MOT, your eyes need regular check-ups. The DVLA recommends an eye test every two years or sooner if you notice any changes to your vision.
Here are some signs that your eyesight may be falling below safe standards:
- Trouble focusing at night or in low light.
- Being dazzled by glare from oncoming headlights.
- Difficulty reading road signs or judging distances.
If you experience any of these issues, book an appointment with your optometrist as soon as possible.
Ten Top Tips to Keep Your Vision Roadworthy
- Regularly test your eyesight by reading a number plate from 20 metres away.
- Have a sight test every two years (or sooner if advised).
- Always wear your prescription glasses or contact lenses when driving.
- Keep lenses clean and scratch-free to reduce glare.
- Keep a spare pair of glasses in your car.
- Choose glasses with an anti-reflection coating.
- Never wear tinted lenses or sunglasses at night.
- Clean your windscreen regularly and check wiper blades.
- Make sure your car lights are working properly.
- If dazzled by headlights, focus on the nearside curb - and slow down.
How Herts Ability Can Help!
At Herts Ability, we help people drive safely, confidently, and legally - whatever their circumstances.
If you’ve noticed changes in your eyesight, or you’re unsure whether your vision is still safe for driving, we can help through our specialist Driving Assessments.
Our experienced driving assessors and occupational therapists provide professional evaluations to:
- Assess your visual and cognitive abilities for driving.
- Recommend adaptations or driving aids if needed.
- Support you in retaining your independence safely.
We work closely with optometrists, GPs, and the DVLA to ensure that every driver we see has the right support and advice to stay safe on the road.
Drive Smart. Drive Safe. Drive with Clear Vision!
Poor vision costs lives - but it doesn’t have to! By getting your eyes tested regularly and making sure your vision is up to the legal standard, you’re helping make Hertfordshire’s roads safer for everyone.
If you have any doubts about your vision or driving ability, contact Herts Ability today to book a Driving Assessment or find out how we can help you stay safely on the road.
Visit VisionAndDriving.info for more about the campaign and learn more about our services at hertsability.org.uk!
