Millions of drivers could be failing to follow NHS guidance on having eye tests every two years, a new survey suggests.
The survey, conducted by contact lens retailer Lenstore, quizzed 2,000 UK drivers on their eye health and recent optician visits.
Half of the respondents claimed to have either not had their eyes tested within the last two years, or never had them tested at all.
With 73% of respondents also indicating that they are wearing glasses or contact lenses, it appears many are risking that their prescriptions are no longer up to date.
Short-sightedness emerged as the most common eyesight issue in the study, impacting 23% of respondents.
Almost one in five (19%) also suffered from long sightedness, while 18% complained of experiencing ‘eye floaters’ in their vision.
Bus and lorry drivers took the top spot for ignoring eye test advice, as over two-thirds (69%) failed to regularly visit their optician for a check-up. They were followed by motorcyclists (57%) and car and van drivers (50%).
Lenstore says regular eye tests are “one of the best measures we have” when it comes to preventing collisions.
Sujata Paul, contact lens optician and professional services clinical lead at Lenstore, said: “Having regular eye tests is one of the most important things you can do for your health, even if you think you have perfect vision.
“That is because eye tests can not only reveal early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma, but also help detect other health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
“We strongly encourage all drivers, especially those who wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, to make sure they are up to date on routine eye examinations by visiting a qualified optometrist every two years.
“When it comes to reducing the number of preventable car accidents on our roads, regular eye tests are one of the best measures we have, and one day having yours could even save someone’s life.”
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