Plans published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) have missed an opportunity to improve sight standards for motorists, according to the Association of Optometrists (AOP).
The AOP welcomed the DVSA’s review into how sight tests were administered but urged for the implementation of fail-safe visual assessment methods.
The DVSA intended to change the current eye sight check of reading a number plate from 20 metres to take place in any level of light and not just good daylight.
Adam Sampson, chief executive at the AOP, said: ‘The indication by the DVSA to remove the ‘good daylight’ requirement for sight tests for drivers is concerning as it completely misses the mark. The current system is deeply flawed and falls behind many other countries who require a full sight test to ensure motorists have good enough vision to drive.’
The AOP noted that the DVSA would work with stakeholders, including the professional optical body, to develop the proposals.