According to a new survey drivers are ducking eye tests with some who need glasses at the wheel often declining to use them.
Around 26% of drivers have not had an eye test in the last two years, the poll by road safety charity Brake showed.
A total of 9% have not visited an optician for five years or more, while 3% had not had eye checks for more than a decade, revealed the survey.
It paints quite an alarming attitude to the one out of our five senses that most of us would agree is the most vital.
Our eyesight is something which can alter quite dramatically and certainly if you are on the wrong side of 40 you may find you are struggling to focus on reading as well as you used to.
This is because of presbyopia, a condition which generally hits us in middle age. It is totally natural, but means focussing on close up objects isn’t that easy anymore.
That is where we at Tiger Specs come into the picture providing great value, fashionable reading glasses and reading sunglasses. However, that apart this survey emphasises a belief by all respectable parties in the optical profession to take eye health seriously.
In the survey Brake deputy chief executive Julie Townsend said: “Being a driver is a huge responsibility, and means you need to look after your own health and fitness to drive as well as making sure your vehicle is roadworthy.”
She goes on to say that if your vision isn’t up to scratch you are posing an enormous risk on roads, as eyesight can deteriorate rapidly without you noticing, and at the wheel that can be lethal.
We entirely agree with her. That’s why it is so important to get tested every two years.
Eye tests are cheap, can also detect other indications of problems you may have with your health, and provide great reassurance. Appointments are easy and quick to book, so if it’s been more than two years since you were last at the opticians now is the time to book a date in your diary.