Regular eye tests for motorists backed by older drivers
New research has found that older drivers back regular eye tests for motorists in greater number than younger drivers.
The Department for Transport is considering making in-person eye tests for older drivers mandatory, replacing the current system where motorists over 70 self-certify their driving fitness every three years.
A survey by car retailer Motorpoint found that such a change would be widely supported by older drivers, with 37% of over 65s in support of regular eye tests compared to just nine per cent of those aged 17-24.
Meanwhile, 23% of drivers aged 25-34 would support regular eye tests as a driving requirement.
Motorpoint’s Tim Rodie said: “Our research shows that older drivers are actually the most engaged group with vision safety on the road. They’re also more supportive of measures that could improve safety for all road users.
“This is great to see because older motorists will be more impacted by policy changes on eyesight testing; 62% of motorists aged 65 and over think the same vision testing standards should apply to all car owners, regardless of age, so clearly many drivers feel the DfT’s proposed changes don’t go far enough.”
